10.19.2011 With the recent passage of AB 69, now is the time to implement an effective model to boost CalFresh participation among seniors.
This white paper proposes an enrollment model for California that could increase CalFresh participation among Social Security recipients (those receiving retirement benefits). Because seniors often rely on fixed incomes and have expensive medical needs, seniors may have limited food budgets and lack adequate nutrition.
Historically, seniors have a low participation rate in CalFresh; among Social Security recipients, participation is even worse. Only five percent of eligible Social Security recipients participate in CalFresh. Using best practices from other states, this model employs data sharing and simplified applications and enrollment in order to make seniors aware of CalFresh, and provide them with an easy way to apply for benefits.
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