HARRISBURG – With continued commitment to providing nutrition assistance to low-income and disabled Pennsylvania families, the Department of Public Welfare was recently recognized by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Services for its efforts in achieving efficient and effective program service.
“Pennsylvania families should never be in a position to question how they will provide food for their loved ones,” said Department of Public Welfare Secretary Estelle B. Richman. “We have made great strides in streamlining the benefit process for families statewide and are continuing our work to break down the barriers to help people afford food items that can significantly improve their quality of life.”
In commending the department for its focus on customer service, Food and Nutrition Services recognized DPW’s efforts to provide online tools for eligibility screening, for submitting applications and re-certifications, for the establishment of call centers – making it easier for clients to report changes to their application, and for helping community organizations to conduct outreach activities.
In addition to improved customer service, DPW was also acknowledged for maintaining error rates significantly below the national average.
Earlier this year, the department announced the implementation of the Combined Application Project, allowing approximately 34,000 seniors and adults with disabilities to simultaneously apply for both supplemental security income, or SSI, and food stamps.
The Department of Public Welfare administers the food stamp program through 98 county assistance offices statewide and provides benefits to low-income and disabled individuals and families, including working families, who need help with food expenses.
For more information on Pennsylvania’s food stamp program and initiative to improve customer service, visit www.dpw.state.pa.us.