Student Grants Center

Basic Food Employment and Training

Program Overview

Basic Food Employment and Training (BFET) is a partnership between Wenatchee Valley College and the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) that helps recipients of federal Basic Food assistance access education, training, and support services needed to obtain or upgrade employment.

For more information about Basic Food (also known as SNAP or Food Stamps), visit the DSHS website.

To apply for Basic Food, visit the Washington Connection website and click "See If I Qualify". Student Grants Center staff at WVC can also provide you with a referral to apply in person at your local DSHS Community Services Office.

For assistance with your Basic Food application, contact WVC Student Benefits Navigator.

---

Eligibility

You may be eligible to participate in the BFET program at Wenatchee Valley College if:

• You are eligible for Basic Food assistance (SNAP, Food Stamps) through the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS). Even if your monthly benefit amount is $0.00, you may still be eligible for BFET.
• You are not receiving TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) cash benefits through DSHS. If you are receiving TANF, you may instead be eligible for WorkFirst.
• You are enrolled in a BFET-eligible degree or certificate program at Wenatchee Valley College. See below for a list of eligible programs.

Program Benefits

BFET participants can receive:

• Eligible student status for Basic Food while enrolled in classes without having to meet a work requirement or other exemption
• Eligible student status for the Working Connections Childcare subsidy program
• Financial assistance for tuition and fees not covered by other sources of financial aid
• Financial assistance for required books and supplies, transportation, and other emergency expenses on a case-by-case basis
• Comprehensive case management and support with navigating WVC and DSHS processes and services

---