It is estimated that only a small percentage of older Pennsylvania adults who are eligible to receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are doing so. This means many may not be aware that they are eligible for the program and how it can help them.
To help remedy this, the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services created a simplified SNAP web page and began working on messaging and marketing materials specifically for older adults.
What is SNAP?
SNAP, funded by the federal government and administered by the Department of Human Services, helps eligible individuals and families in Pennsylvania. Benefits are provided monthly via an Electronic Benefit Transfer card, which recipients use to purchase foods at their local grocery stores and farmers markets. These benefits are not cash, and can only be used on food purchases.
Why it’s important for seniors
Studies have shown that older adults who are food insecure have:
- Diets that are less nutritious
- Worse health outcomes
- A higher risk for depression
In contrast, seniors enrolled in SNAP report better health and less need for acute and long-term care.
Qualifications
Eligibility for SNAP is based on factors such as household income and available resources. The COMPASS website has a “Do I Qualify?” tool, or folks can visit their county assistance office to learn more.
Applying is easier than ever
Seniors should have the following ready when applying for SNAP:
- Dates of birth for all members of their household
- Social Security numbers for all members of their household
- Household income information
- Household expense information
- Housing costs (such as rent or mortgage)
- Medical expenses
There is a two-page application for Pennsylvanians 60 or older and/or with disabilities and no earned income. They can apply online using COMPASS or in person at their county assistance office, where an expert can help them through the process.
Help spread the word!
Can you help us let older adults know that SNAP is here for them? Click on any of the images within this newsletter for a larger version you can download and share on social media. Here is some messaging we ran past focus groups that you may use with posts:
- SNAP helps older adults live better. With SNAP, seniors have more purchasing power at the grocery store, so they can buy quality foods to stay healthy and feel their best. http://bit.ly/SNAPolderadults
- SNAP helps older adults live better. It’s easier than ever to apply. Fill out the simplified application, then get back to living your life. http://bit.ly/SNAPolderadults
- Help spread the word: Studies show that older adults enrolled in SNAP have better health and fewer hospitalizations/ER visits, so they can spend more time living their lives. http://bit.ly/SNAPolderadults
- SNAP helps you live better. If you’re on a fixed income, SNAP may be able to help you afford more nutritious foods at the grocery store. Applying has never been so simple: http://bit.ly/SNAPolderadults
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