HARTFORD - The Connecticut Association for Human Services, a statewide non-profit agency, is working to help encourage eligible low-income people to enroll in the food stamp program.Outreach staff members from CAHS are available to present information to community members, businesses, municipal officials and social service agencies throughout the southern, central and western parts of Connecticut.CAHS has performed this service for several years as part of the State of Connecticut Department of Social Services' statewide outreach plan.
The food stamp program is the among federal government's largest nutrition programs, providing benefits to more than 210,000 Connecticut residents annually, according to recent USDA data.
The program is the cornerstone of the nutrition programs because it is available to low-income people of several different age groups.
Through its outreach program, CAHS hopes to reach the estimated 100,000 state residents who are eligible for the program, but not currently participating.
These people include low-income working people, legal immigrants, seniors, homeless families and individuals, and people who have recently left cash assistance programs.
"We have found that quite often, people are simply not aware that they are eligible for food stamps. They may not be aware of the eligibility guidelines, or they may have heard from friends or family members that they will not qualify.
"We hope to reach the people that are eligible, let them know if they qualify, and direct them to DSS to apply," said Tracy Helin, outreach director for CAHS.
"Many times, people are reluctant to apply because they think that their benefit level will be low. We are now able to give people an idea of what benefit level they might qualify for by pre-screening them, which may make them more likely to apply."
CAHS has presented food stamp information to more than 2,500 Connecticut residents over the past year, and plans to expand upon that figure this year by working with a more diverse, and larger, group of agencies. There is an option for a CAHS staff member to visit agencies, businesses, schools, grocery stores or senior centers.
Those seeking additional information may call Tracy Helin at 860-951-2212, ext. 236.
