Nutrition Assistance Program – American Samoa

The American Samoa Nutrition Assistance Program (NAP) is a capped federal block grant providing food assistance to low-income households in lieu of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Authorized under Section 19 of the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008, it allows the territory to establish its own eligibility and benefit levels.

Only low-income elderly (over 60), blind, or disabled individuals are eligible for the NAP program. The block grant allows American Samoa to design a nutrition assistance program tailored to the territory’s unique cultural, social, and economic circumstances.

Only low-income elderly (over 60), blind, or disabled individuals are eligible for the NAP program. The block grant allows American Samoa to design a nutrition assistance program tailored to the territory’s unique cultural, social, and economic circumstances.

Funding is provided via a federal/state agreement.

Authorization and Funding: Congress authorizes a fixed amount of federal spending annually for the block grant, which is administered by the USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS).
Annual Plan of Operation: Participating territories must submit and receive FNS approval for an annual Plan of Operation. This plan details the program's rules, including eligibility criteria and benefit levels, which the territory designs to meet its specific needs.
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU): In some jurisdictions, such as American Samoa, FNS approves the program rules and funding structure through a yearly MOU.
Application and Submission: The territories (not individuals) apply for the funds. While SNAP is an entitlement, NAP funding is capped based on the approved plan, and the territory must manage the caseload within that fixed amount.