Food Stamp Outreach Project

LIBERTY, December 8, 2004 - Liberty Senior Activity Center will host The Lone Star Legal Aid Food Stamp Outreach Project on Friday, December 17, 2004 from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at 2000 Panther Lane in Liberty.

The Food Stamp Outreach Project is a special division of Lone Star Legal Aid, a nonprofit legal aid law firm, funded, at least in part, with Federal funds from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The Project’s goal is to increase participation in the Food Stamp Program by educating potential consumers about the benefits and availability of the program, explaining the application process, providing individual eligibility screening, and assisting with completion of applications for consumers who choose to apply for food stamps.

The Food Stamp Program is the cornerstone of the nation’s nutrition safety net, yet many who are eligible do not participate. About 60% of eligible people in the United States participated in 2001; participation in Texas was only 49%. Participation rates for the elderly (28%) and U.S. born children living with non-citizen parents (34%) are traditionally among the lowest.

People who qualify for food stamps face many barriers. Most have incomes below the poverty level; many are elderly, disabled, or don’t speak English. Shortage of resources makes it difficult to access public benefits and services. Lack of accurate information about food stamp eligibility and benefits adds to misconceptions that discourage participation.

LSLA wants to reduce hunger in Texas by increasing access to food stamps. Participation in the Food Stamp Program is an entitlement for those who qualify. The Food Stamp Outreach Project provides education and simplifies the application process. For more information, please call Lloyd or Alma at 936.336.7265.

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