Cash & Food Assistance
Olmsted County provides cash & food assistance programs and services to residents who qualify (SNAP, GA, MSA, MFIP, Refugee Assistance).
Click the links below to learn about each program and begin your application process. Steps to apply are provided at the bottom of the page.
How to Apply for Assistance
Apply Online
You may apply online through MN Benefits
Mail or Drop off
We have paper applications available outside our building.
You can mail/drop off your paper application at:
2117 Campus Drive South East, Suite 100
Rochester, MN 55904
You can email your paper application to PAQ@Co.Olmsted.MN.US
Fax
You can fax your paper application to 507-328-7956
Application Assistance
We can help you fill out applications, answer questions, and guide you through the process. Please call to make an appointment.
Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Call: 507-328-6500
Toll Free 1-855-282-3390
Food Assistance (SNAP)
The SNAP Program (formerly called the Food Stamp Program or Food Support) is a county-run federal program that provides low-income households with money to buy healthy food.
General Assistance (GA)
The General Assistance program provides cash assistance to single and married adults without children who cannot work. Elderly, injured, and ill adults may qualify for help.
Minnesota Supplemental Aid (MSA)
Minnesota Supplemental Aid is a state-funded cash assistance program for people who receive Social Security Income (SSI) benefits.
Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP)
The Minnesota Family Investment Program helps families become financially stable by providing work support, temporary cash assistance, and food support. This program is for low-income families with children under 18 and pregnant women who are able to work.
Refugee Assistance
Refugee Cash Assistance may be available to individuals and families who cannot return to their home country because it is unsafe. In Olmsted County this program is administered by Catholic Charities.