|
ALBANY--The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has agreed to a request by the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) to change the federal formula used to determine food stamp grants, a move that will lead to higher benefit level for many recipients in New York.
Robert Doar, commissioner at OTDA, said he made the request due to the skyrocketing costs of home heating fuels and the effect those prices increases are having on low-income New Yorkers.
"The request was made in keeping with Gov. Pataki's desire to respond proactively to the energy crisis," Doar said. "As a result, a sizeable portion of our caseload, particularly elderly and disabled recipients, will see an increase in their monthly food stamp benefits."
In setting food stamp grants OTDA, the agency charged with oversight of the food stamp program, annually establishes a standard utility allowance (SUA) that acts as a deduction from income and therefore allows for more food stamp benefits to recipients.
As a result of USDA approval, many food stamp recipients, mostly elderly and disabled, will see an increase in their monthly food stamp benefit of about $10.
"This increase will help some of our most vulnerable residents stretch their food budget just a bit further at a time when they can use all of the financial help they can get," said Russell Sykes, head of the Division of Employment and Transitional Support for OTDA. "This request was clearly warranted under the circumstances and we intend to submit another update request as more current heating fuel and utility pricing data becomes available in January 2006."
From January 2002 thru September 2005, the food stamp recipient population has increased by more than 34 percent to 1.75 million.
12-21-05
© 2005 North
Country Gazette
|
