The federally funded Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly called Food Stamps) remains the first line of defense against hunger for about one in seven Massachusetts residents (over 1.1 million individuals, 637,000 Massachusetts households). Families and individuals often struggle with getting their SNAP applications and recertifications approved. Collecting all the required proofs and getting through the application process can be overwhelming for an unrepresented household. Some of the most challenging cases involve the rules for immigrant-headed households. Special rules also apply to households with older adults and persons with disabilities.
The training includes an overview of the SNAP program, an update on federal and state SNAP changes, and an in-depth look at the nuts and bolts of SNAP eligibility, benefit amount, online tools, troubleshooting, and appeal rights. This training is designed for legal services advocates, food pantry and food bank staff, social services and health services workers, and community activists who want to learn about the basic SNAP rules and advocacy tips.
ABOUT BASIC PUBLIC BENEFITS ADVOCACY TRAININGS
MCLE and Massachusetts Law Reform Institute (MLRI) collaborate annually with a training series designed for both community-based organizations and public/private sector legal advocates who assist low income Massachusetts residents. The training series covers the nuts and bolts of federal and state public benefits, tax credits, tenant and utilities rights and more.
MCLE webcasts are delivered completely online, underscoring their convenience and appeal. There are no published print materials. All written materials are available electronically only. They are posted 24 hours prior to the program and can be accessed, downloaded, or printed from your computer.