Did you know that VANTAGE Aging and the Summit County Department of Job and Family Services have teamed up to break the stigma of SNAP? This summer, be sure to check out an event near you to learn more about nutrition assistance benefits you could be missing out on.
Senior SNAP Benefits
SNAP stands for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. It is the nation’s largest federal nutrition program that helps low-income individuals and families. The goal of SNAP is to improve food security and nutrition among low-income households.
Many older adults benefit from the Senior SNAP program. To qualify, you must be 60 or older and meet income and eligibility guidelines.
If your completed application is accepted, you can receive funds on an electronic benefit transfer (EBT) card to be used for food items. SNAP offers additional benefits, such as the ability to roll over money each month and earn points to be used at participating farmers’ markets.
While SNAP is a great way for older adults to make sure they get sufficient nutrition, many are not taking advantage of the program. Only two out of five eligible seniors receive SNAP benefits. That means that three out of five people are not getting the benefits they qualify for.
SNAP is an easy and discrete way to get nutritious foods for staying healthy and independent at home. By signing up for SNAP, you are never taking benefits away from another person. And, enrolling in SNAP could make you eligible for other programs. SNAP is funded by the National Council on Aging.
Seniors & SNAP Events
Want to learn even more about how you can take advantage of SNAP? Sign up for a Seniors & SNAP event this summer. Here are some upcoming events!
June 25 Seniors & SNAP
Mount Calvary Baptist Church, Akron at 11 AM
Hear from the Summit County Department of Job and Family Services about SNAP food assistance benefits. Plus, learn about senior services available through VANTAGE Aging, NET transportation, and LTC Medicaid. A meal is included in registration.
June 26 Seniors & SNAP at Akron Ward 7 Meeting
Firestone Park Community Center, Akron at 6 PM
Do you live near Firestone Park? Join Summit County Department of Job and Family Services and VANTAGE Aging at the Ward 7 Meeting to hear about SNAP! This is a great event for community members who have free time in the evening. A complimentary meal will be provided.
June 27 Seniors & SNAP at Akron Ward 6 Meeting
Ellet Community Center, Akron at 5 PM
Don’t miss your chance to learn more about the Senior Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Summit County Department of Job and Family Services experts will be here to answer all of your questions. You can even start your application at the event. Plus, hear about additional resources in Summit County from partnering agencies.
July 2 Seniors & SNAP at Joy Park
Joy Park Community Center, Akron at 2 PM
If you are in the Joy Park area, this is a great opportunity to get some senior resources. Get all of your questions about SNAP answered by the experts at Summit County Job and Family Services. Applications will be available to sign up for SNAP. You will also hear about LTC Medicaid, NET transportation, and VANTAGE Aging.
July 3 Seniors & SNAP
United Methodist Church, Macedonia at 11 AM
We want to make sure that all Summit County residents have the opportunity to learn more about SNAP benefits. That is why we are coming to Macedonia on July 3 to share information and get individuals started on their enrollments. Be sure to register for Seniors & SNAP to receive a free meal.
July 17 Seniors & SNAP in Hudson
Barlow Community & Senior Center, Hudson at 11:30 AM
Seniors & SNAP is coming to Hudson! Find out what you need to know about your senior SNAP benefits. You may be eligible and not know about it. Learn from the experts at Summit County Department of Job and Family Services. Also hear about programs of VANTAGE Aging, a nonprofit that promotes positive aging. A free meal will be provided to registered guests.
Seniors & SNAP Education
Can’t attend a Seniors & SNAP event listed above? We are providing SNAP information through April 2020. Be on the lookout for more upcoming events on our website and social media channels. We will be posting updates and new opportunities to attend.
If you are interested in hosting a Seniors & SNAP event, please contact us at 330-253-4597. The events are free to host and a meal is provided. We are aiming to reach seniors across all of Summit County, so let us know if Seniors & SNAP is something you would like to participate in!
Questions? Contact VANTAGE at 330-253-4597 or info@vantageaging.org to learn more.
*The information in this article is intended solely to provide general information on matters of interest for the personal use of the reader, who accepts full responsibility for its use. This article should not be used as a substitute for consultation with professional legal, medical, or other competent advisors.