Strategic Student Engagement to Address Food Insecurity through Access to SNAP and WIC Programs
Project focus area
We are helping people become more food secure by signing them up for SNAP benefits using the mRelief tool that allows applications to be submitted completely through text message and without going to the DCF office. We are working with the SCSEP (Senior Community Service Employment Program) and KDHE + Topeka Correctional Facility (TCF) CHW Apprenticeship program to add people to our network that can help with the application process. We have seen the number of people connected to our pantry and receiving SNAP increase because of the intentional work we are doing to help with applications.
Plan for action
To launch a coordinated workstudy program with Washburn University to help students assist residents in accessing SNAP/WIC benefits and gain hands-on experience in social care. This will be our next step in the program. We are working out the logistics with Washburn University.
Demographics
Racial and ethnic groups, Persons with low income
Evidence
Through expanded staffing capacity and targeted outreach, SENT is increasing timely access to SNAP by reducing barriers to enrollment and significantly shortening the application and approval process for eligible households.
We added five new licenses to our mRelief account. By the end of January 2026, we will have onboarded five additional team members who are trained and able to use mRelief to assist individuals with SNAP applications.
We are actively promoting mRelief across Shawnee, Ellis, Saline, Riley, Sedgwick, and Pottawatomie counties.
Since launching in March 2025:
- 1,178 individuals have used the app to screen for SNAP eligibility
- 817 individuals were determined to be eligible for SNAP
- 115 individuals completed SNAP applications through mRelief with assistance from SENT
Individuals who were determined eligible had the option to apply for SNAP through the app independently or with support. SENT directly assisted 115 applicants through the enrollment process.
Traditionally, SNAP enrollment can take several weeks and often requires an in-person visit to a local DCF office. Through mRelief, individuals are able to screen for eligibility, complete an application, and receive approval in under one week. Many receive their SNAP cards within a week of submitting their application.
Quotes from clients:
"Well after starting the process it's just took a couple of days to get approved and got some food stamps already extremely grateful."“Very easy. I had lots of assistance. Difficulty was definitely not a roadblock.”
Impact:
By streamlining access to SNAP, this work directly increases household food security, reduces administrative burden for both applicants and state systems, and ensures that eligible families receive critical nutrition support quickly—when it is most needed.
Progress
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Set your project focus and actions, who you’ll engage, and how you’ll measure success—plus a simple timeline. Submit this setup to kick off.
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Share what’s done, what you’re learning, and any course corrections. Note any support needs to stay on track.
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Summarize outcomes and evidence (reach, partnerships, dollars), key insights and barriers, and recommended next steps. Completing this closes your Actioneer project.
Collaborators
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Jill Rice
Dashboard
- Collaborators
- 1
- New partnerships
- 2
- Total investment
- $5,000
- People impacted
- 1,178