One city has told their food stamp beneficiaries to use food banks. Staffing shortages have caused delays in people receiving their benefits on time.
Denver currently has 70 positions open for technicians, but not enough applicants.
The positions that are open are the ones that process SNAP benefits.
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Due to such a shortage in staff, there has been a major delay in the people of Denver receiving their benefits on time.
Priority is currently going to residents most at risk.
This means those facing possible eviction, seniors, or anyone with medical conditions.
You can prove this to Denver Human Services by submitting documentation Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.
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Those that aren’t at any sort of risk will need to reach out to food banks or other places that offer assistance.
On Dec. 17, Denver Human Services will host their monthly food bank on North Steele Street.
Who can get SNAP benefits?
42 million Americans currently receive SNAP benefits.
In 2019, it was reported that 80,000 Denver residents collected food stamp benefits.
Whether you qualify depends on your states rules, despite the fact that SNAP is federally funded.
Normally those with gross incomes of up to 130% of the federal poverty line can receive food stamps.
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Those in a single person household would need to make $12,880 or less to qualify for food stamps.
Due to the pandemic, there was a permanent boost in food stamps in Oct.
People are seeing an average increase of around $36 per person.
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