Illinois receives $4.1M bonus for accuracy in food assistance program

[July 20, 2013]  SPRINGFIELD -- Illinois Department of Human Services Secretary Michelle R.B. Saddler announced Thursday that the state was awarded a $4.1 million bonus for its effective administration of the Supplemental Food and Nutrition Program. Illinois was recognized for its accuracy rate of 98.3 percent, which ranked sixth in the nation in fiscal 2012.

"Our continued accuracy in the SNAP program is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our caseworkers and administrators," said Saddler. "Despite hefty caseloads, IDHS caseworkers have demonstrated a culture of caring that has paid off, not only for the state but for each individual that we serve."

In May, 2,048,898 people received SNAP benefits. SNAP helps low-income people and families buy the food they need for good health. The program is funded and managed by the Food and Nutrition Service of the United States Department of Agriculture. IDHS administers the program in Illinois.

For more information about SNAP, including eligibility requirements and applications, visit www.dhs.state.il.us.

[Text from Illinois Department of Human Services file received from the Illinois Office of Communication and Information]