Graduating from college was a significant milestone for me. I had worked hard, stayed up late, and put in countless hours to earn my degree. But as the celebrations ended, a new wave of anxiety washed over me. The reality of finding a job that paid enough to cover my rent and groceries was overwhelming. Unlike many of my peers, I didn’t have the safety net to move back home or receive financial support from my family. The pressure to secure employment was immense, and I often felt embarrassed to admit that I hadn’t yet found a job, despite my degree.

During my time in college, I utilized 3SquaresVT, Vermont’s food benefit program. It was a lifeline that ensured my basic needs were met while I focused on my studies. Knowing about this resource gave me some peace of mind as I approached graduation. I understood that if I didn’t find a job immediately, I had 3SquaresVT to rely on, unlike family support, which was not an option for me.

Fortunately, I found a job shortly after graduating. However, the reality of entry-level pay meant that my income was still not enough to cover all my expenses comfortably. I have been accessing other resources to make ends meet and am planning to reapply for 3SquaresVT. The benefits I received in college made a significant difference, and I know they can help me again now.

Reapplying for 3SquaresVT while working full-time is something I never expected to do. There’s a stigma attached to needing assistance when you have a job, and I’ve struggled with feelings of embarrassment and failure. But I’ve come to realize that it’s okay to seek help. Programs like 3SquaresVT are designed to support people facing hunger and financial stress, regardless of their employment status.

The food benefits from 3SquaresVT helped alleviate some of the stress I was feeling while I was in college and helped me find internships that were key to getting my post-grad job. With my basic needs covered, I could focus more on searching for internships. I could attend interviews and networking events without worrying about where my next meal would come from. It also allowed me to make healthier food choices, which is crucial for maintaining energy and motivation during a job hunt.

Although navigating the application process for 3SquaresVT wasn’t always easy, especially when it came to documenting my income, there are people ready to help you with your unique situation. As a college student, my income often fluctuated due to freelance work that wasn’t steady. Thankfully, I had on-campus support that guided me through the process. Although I am no longer in college and don’t have access to that support, Vermont Foodbank offers their own resource specialists who can assist you. They can help you understand how to accurately represent your income and other circumstances on your application, supporting you to receive the assistance you need during this transitional phase.

I want to emphasize that there’s no shame in using resources like 3SquaresVT. Many recent graduates face similar challenges, and it’s okay to seek help. The transition from college to career is often unpredictable, and programs like 3SquaresVT exist to provide support during these times.

If you’re a recent graduate struggling to make ends meet, applying for 3SquaresVT could be a crucial step. Everyone deserves to have their basic needs met while they work toward their career goals. The application process might feel daunting initially, but it’s a valuable resource worth exploring. There are support systems available to guide you through the eligibility and application process. To learn more, you can contact a resource specialist at Vermont Foodbank. They are there to answer your questions, assess your eligibility, and assist with your application. You can reach out by visiting the 3SquaresVT webpage to connect with them, or by calling 855-855-6181, texting VFBSNAP to 85511, or emailing 3svt@vtfoodbank.org. Taking this step could provide the support you need during this transitional phase.