PROGRAM GIVES SENIORS & DISABLED BETTER ACCESS TO FOOD STAMPS

          HARRISBURG, January 31 – Pennsylvania senior citizens and adults living with disabilities will now find it easier to apply for food stamps thanks to Pennsylvania’s Combined Application Project (PA CAP), according to State Sen. LeAnna M. Washington (D-Phila./Montgomery).

          The program, launched this month, allows these individuals to apply for food stamps and supplemental security income (SSI) simultaneously.

          “This program is a great way for Pennsylvania seniors and adults living with disabilities to have easier access to the things that are essential to their quality of life,” Washington said. 

         Washington added that the program has already enabled approximately 34,000 seniors and adults living with disabilities to be enrolled automatically for benefits.

          Through a special five-year demonstration project, SSI recipients who live alone or who purchase and prepare meals separately from other household members will be eligible for the new program. Eligible Pennsylvanians will receive a green ACCESS card in the mail, which may be used at supermarkets and other retail food stores. Benefits will be administered based on the individual's shelter costs and types of income.

          Individuals receiving SSI income only and whose shelter costs are below $196 per month will receive $31 in benefits monthly. Those who shelter costs are above $196 per month will receive $103 per month. Those receiving SSI and another source of income whose shelter costs are below $196 per month will receive $22 per month while those whose shelter costs are above $196 per month will receive $94 monthly.