The Division of Public Assistance is committed to assisting our neighbors in need and we are working diligently to provide the highest level of customer service possible during this difficult time in our communities. This situation is changing rapidly and we are anticipating many changes in the coming days and weeks. While offices are not providing in-person service at this time, lobbies are open to pick up and drop off information and applications. We can provide service by mail, phone, fax, and email.

Public Assistance recipients should be aware of several changes resulting from the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, including:

• Medicaid benefits have been enhanced and extended
• No-work requirements for SNAP (formerly Food Stamps) have been suspended
• Automatic six month extension for all Public Assistance programs

For more information, please see DPA Director Shawnda O’Brien’s letter to DPA recipients.

April 10, 2020 - The division recently received approval from the federal Food and Nutrition Service to issue emergency allotments for the April and May 2020 benefit months. Each household will receive the maximum allowable benefit for their household size regardless of the income being counted. The additional benefits will be issued as supplements beginning the week of April 13, 2020.