Agenda - 05-20-1986 - Laserfiche WebLink

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THE FOOD STAMP PROGRAM The Food Stamp Program is a cooperative activity of local , State and Federal governments working together for a healthier America. Under the program, food coupons commonly referred to as food stamps - are used to supplement the ' food buying power of - eligible low income households. The program is administered nationally by the U. S. Department of Agriculture's Food and Nutrition Service and locally by the Department of Social Services. Occasionally the program also locates food commodities which it facilitates distributing to eligible clients. The Food Stamp Program was created to improve the levels of nutrition among low-income households. Low-income families have many needs, but food is the most essential of all. It gives children the health they need in order to learn, and adults the energy they need in order to work. Computerization: - 1) Computerized by mandated State system, due for update by State in 1987. SURPLUS COMMODITIES DISTRIBUTION The U. S. Department of Agriculture provides various food products available for distribution to low income citizens. These include: cheese, butter, dry milk, flour, cornmeal , rice and honey. Distribution frequency depends on available supplies. Eligibility is based on self-declaration of income. -Computerization: 1) Quarterly distribution report maintained on 1•,500 plus households listing food received, distribution site, : dates : participated. 2) Consolidated distribution report for State Department of Agriculture . MEDICAID Medicaid provides assistance in acquiring medical care for the needy through county Department of Social Services. It offers a unified medical care program for AFDC recipients, SSI recipients, _ and the medically indigent who fit into the federal categories for the aged, the disabled, the blind, or 'dependent children.