"The recently-launched Working Families Food Stamp Initiative has removed hurdles, such as face-to-face interviews and finger imaging requirements, that have kept Food Stamp-eligible households with earnings from participating in the Food Stamp Program at same rate as other eligible households. The goal of the initiative is to enroll an additional 100,000 new households in the Food Stamp Program, including more than 100,000 children, by the end of 2008."
As of January 1, New York State has waived limits on the amount of savings an income-eligible person can have and still receive stamp benefits. This will allow individuals to save money for important family needs without jeopardizing their food stamp benefits. Additionally, eligible applicants outside of New York City, who are working a required number of hours, will no longer be subject to finger imaging requirements. The program will be implemented by the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA).
Beginning in May, a facilitated online food stamp application pilot project will also be launched, to provide working families with the option of applying for food stamps on the Web with the help of community-based organizations, further easing access. Over time, this facilitated electronic application will become a broad web-based application, allowing working families to apply from multiple sites. In Ulster County, Family of Woodstock, Catholic Charities, and the LGBTQ Center will all be providing assistance with this pilot project.
No comments:
Post a Comment