Food Stamp Outreach

Because hunger is unacceptable and because Food Stamp benefits are one of the most effective ways to combat hunger, the FreestoreFoodbank has established programs designed to help individuals and families acquire and retain Food Stamp benefits. Working in partnership with both the Ohio and the Hamilton County Departments of Job and Family Services, the FreestoreFoodbank has structured a system for guiding low-income persons through the often frustrating and always confusing process of applying for Food Stamp benefits.

FreestoreFoodbank case workers talk face-to-face with persons seeking assistance through the hundreds of nonprofit member agencies who help distribute emergency food and other services. Meeting with clients in their own neighborhoods helps remove some of the intimidation and stigma associated with seeking government assistance. Not only does this allow case workers to engage people more successfully, it also makes it easier for low-income individuals to follow-through. Completing the application and submitting all the required documentation can be a daunting task for those of little means who may also be limited by lack of transportation, illiteracy, and language barriers.

Not only do FreestoreFoodbank case workers ensure that applications are correct and complete, they actually hand-carry the applications to the proper authorities and track them through the system. This results in many more approved applications and a higher rate of Food Stamp usage by eligible individuals and families. These programs have a positive impact on the entire community, infusing millions of dollars into the local economy in the form of Food Stamps that are spent just like cash at area grocery stores.