Beginning October 1, 2026, applications will be accepted for the program year.

Whether you are currently participating in the DISH program, or are currently on our waitlist, you will need to submit a new application during the October application period to be considered for the 2027 program year.

What does this mean for you?

If you are currently enrolled in DISH:

• You will remain enrolled in the DISH program through December 31, 2026.

• You must submit a new application between October 1-31, 2026, to be considered for enrollment in 2027.

• Your current enrollment does not guarantee enrollment for the 2027 program year. All applications will be reviewed using the same scoring process.

• Please keep your current DISH card. If you are selected for the 2027 program year, you will be able to continue using your current DISH card. You will not need to receive a new card.

If you are currently on the DISH waitlist:

• Your current waitlist status will not automatically carry over into the 2027 program year.

• You must submit a new application between October 1–31, 2026, to be considered for enrollment.

• All applications, including those from individuals previously on the waitlist, will be reviewed using the same scoring process.

Annual Application Process

• Applications will be accepted October 1–31, 2026.

• Applications may be submitted by phone, online using the QR code, or in person.

• AAA3 staff will be available to assist you with the application process.

• Walk-in application support days at the Agency are listed on the back of this letter.

• Each application will be reviewed using a fair and consistent scoring system. Enrollment will be offered first to applicants with the highest level of nutritional risk, based on available program capacity.

Household Eligibility

• If one person in a household is eligible for DISH, their spouse or another household member with a disability may also be eligible to apply.

• A household member who is under age 60 may participate if they live with an eligible DISH participant and redeem their meal credits at the same time as the eligible household member.

• Each household member must submit a separate application. All applications will be reviewed using the same scoring process, and enrollment will depend on nutritional risk and available program capacity.