Overview
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is the cornerstone of the Nation’s nutrition safety net and an investment in our future. SNAP helps low-income people buy the food they need for good health. Although SNAP is a Federal program, it is administered in Connecticut by the State of Connecticut Department of Social Services (DSS).
State agencies administering SNAP have the option to conduct program informational activities also called “Outreach” to inform low-income households about the availability, eligibility requirements, application procedures and the benefits of SNAP.
SNAP Outreach can also correct myths and misperceptions about SNAP and enable potentially eligible people to make an informed decision about whether or not to apply.
DSS currently partners with End Hunger Connecticut Inc. (EHC) and the Connecticut Association for Community Action (CAFCA) to provide the following SNAP Outreach services:
- Informational presentations for potentially eligible SNAP clients as well as other community partners/organizations
- SNAP eligibility pre-screening
- Help with SNAP application completion and submission
- Help with gathering and submitting verifications
- Help with understanding the application process
- Help with remaining eligible for SNAP by assisting with the recertification process
As Outreach partners EHC and CAFCA help increase the quality of applications we get. This helps reduce time spent to process these applications. This effort helps both clients and our staff and improves satisfaction with the program.