Local seniors missing out on food stamp assistance
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[January 26, 2012]
Marcia Cook, community nurse liaison
and senior advocate, says the food stamp program is an entitlement
program and is currently being underused by our local community,
especially our senior citizens.
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It is estimated that 20 percent of eligible households are not
participating in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or
SNAP, leaving federal dollars on the table. Cook said she knows
some seniors don't want to ask for help and would rather do without,
but that isn't necessary. The program can be applied for online, and
interviews can be over the phone for those who are homebound. Anyone
can also assist a senior in applying online.
The following are the income
guidelines (maximum gross monthly income) for people 60 and over or
disabled.
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1 person -- $1,815
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2 people -- $2,452
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3 people -- $3,088
Cook said the average amount of benefits per month for eligible
individuals is $141. The minimum amount for individuals is $16.
Eligibility is determined by household size, gross monthly income
and special SNAP situations. The Department of Human Services will
determine benefit amounts based on listed income, household size and
expenses.
If you know a local senior who can benefit from this program,
encourage them to apply and not go without food. To apply online, go
to:
http://fspp.dhs.state.il.us/
register/wb/wbHomePre.do
[Text from file received from
Marcia Cook]
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