Local seniors missing out on food stamp assistance

[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. 

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.

• 1 person -- $1,815

• 2 people -- $2,452

• 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]