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Applied in 2005

Food Stamp Outreach

ACCESS of West Michigan

Program Facts

  • Paid (FTE) Staff Working: 0.5
  • Program Participants Last Year: 749
  • Meets about 20 time(s) with each participant per month
  • Participants remain in the program for 0 months

Volunteers

Volunteers per month: 200

Volunteers are trained:

Volunteer Training
AlwaysRarely

Volunteers are actively recruited:

Volunteer Recruiting
AlwaysRarely

Board Activities

  • Formally reviews the performance of the chief executive officer at least once every two years.
  • Formally approves the budget.
  • Ensures that arrangements with outside fund raising firms are made in writing.
  • Has formally approved a conflict of interest policy and regularly monitors it to ensure adherence.
  • Receives, at least quarterly, the organization's financial statement.
  • Receives, at least annually, an auditor's management letter and report.

Outcomes & Measures: (self-reported)

Outcome 1
Increase access to information about food stamp eligibility to low-income persons in Kent County.

Measure
The number of referrals given

Outcome 2
Increase participation by eligible persons in the food stamp program in Kent County.

Measure
The number of applications taken

Outcome 3
Develop stronger ties among ACCESS, its member Pantry Resource Centers, and Kent County DHS to enhance food stamp outreach to eligible clients and therefore, increase the food security of low-income households in Kent County.

Measure
The number of applications approved

Change Process: (self-reported)

Here is a real life story that demonstrates the value of this program. Our outreach worker was contacted by a mostly homebound 90-year old senior citizen. She was having increasing difficulty meeting her needs on her limited income. She was referred to ACCESS by her Meals on Wheels delivery person. Our food stamp outreach worker made a home visit and completed an application with the necessary verifications. Her neighbor graciously agreed to act as the authorized representative for her Food Assistance benefit account. With a collaboration of various agencies and a caring neighbor, we were able to increase this senior's food purchasing ability. Considering she is a diabetic, this is especially significant. This is one of many examples we encounter each day. Children are healthier and do better in school when adequately fed. The food security of a household is greatly enhanced when they are given the resources to acquire food. In addition to helping people access food resources, additional referrals are made to address issues beyond the need for food.