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HomeMy WebLinkAboutBOARD STANDING COMMITTEES - 05092011 - FHS Cte Agenda Pkt Agen 1. Int 2. Pu (sp DISC 3. Re ap 4. Re ☺ The Com  Any of m 651  Pub For Ad da Items: troductions ublic comme peakers ma CUSSION eferral #10 ppointment Presente eferral #10 Presente e Family and mmittee meetin y disclosable p members of the 1 Pine Street, 1 blic comment m dditional In S Items ent on any ay be limite 01 – Appoi ts. r: Rhonda 03 – SNAP r: John C The n Human Service ngs. 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Following is a list of commonly used language that may appear in oral presentations and written materials associated with Board meetings: AB Assembly Bill ABAG Association of Bay Area Governments ACA Assembly Constitutional Amendment ADA Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 AFSCME American Federation of State County and Municipal Employees AICP American Institute of Certified Planners AIDS Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome ALUC Airport Land Use Commission AOD Alcohol and Other Drugs BAAQMD Bay Area Air Quality Management District BART Bay Area Rapid Transit District BCDC Bay Conservation & Development Commission BGO Better Government Ordinance BOS Board of Supervisors CALTRANS California Department of Transportation CalWIN California Works Information Network CalWORKS California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids CAER Community Awareness Emergency Response CAO County Administrative Officer or Office CCHP Contra Costa Health Plan CCTA Contra Costa Transportation Authority CDBG Community Development Block Grant CEQA California Environmental Quality Act CIO Chief Information Officer COLA Cost of living adjustment ConFire Contra Costa Consolidated Fire District CPA Certified Public Accountant CPI Consumer Price Index CSA County Service Area CSAC California State Association of Counties CTC California Transportation Commission dba doing business as EBMUD East Bay Municipal Utility District EIR Environmental Impact Report EIS Environmental Impact Statement EMCC Emergency Medical Care Committee EMS Emergency Medical Services EPSDT State Early Periodic Screening, Diagnosis and treatment Program (Mental Health) et al. et ali (and others) FAA Federal Aviation Administration FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency F&HS Family and Human Services Committee First 5 First Five Children and Families Commission (Proposition 10) FTE Full Time Equivalent FY Fiscal Year GHAD Geologic Hazard Abatement District GIS Geographic Information System HCD (State Dept of) Housing & Community Development HHS Department of Health and Human Services HIPAA Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act HIV Human Immunodeficiency Syndrome HOV High Occupancy Vehicle HR Human Resources HUD United States Department of Housing and Urban Development Inc. Incorporated IOC Internal Operations Committee ISO Industrial Safety Ordinance JPA Joint (exercise of) Powers Authority or Agreement Lamorinda Lafayette-Moraga-Orinda Area LAFCo Local Agency Formation Commission LLC Limited Liability Company LLP Limited Liability Partnership Local 1 Public Employees Union Local 1 LVN Licensed Vocational Nurse MAC Municipal Advisory Council MBE Minority Business Enterprise M.D. Medical Doctor M.F.T. Marriage and Family Therapist MIS Management Information System MOE Maintenance of Effort MOU Memorandum of Understanding MTC Metropolitan Transportation Commission NACo National Association of Counties OB-GYN Obstetrics and Gynecology O.D. Doctor of Optometry OES-EOC Office of Emergency Services-Emergency Operations Center OSHA Occupational Safety and Health Administration Psy.D. Doctor of Psychology RDA Redevelopment Agency RFI Request For Information RFP Request For Proposal RFQ Request For Qualifications RN Registered Nurse SB Senate Bill SBE Small Business Enterprise SWAT Southwest Area Transportation Committee TRANSPAC Transportation Partnership & Cooperation (Central) TRANSPLAN Transportation Planning Committee (East County) TRE or TTE Trustee TWIC Transportation, Water and Infrastructure Committee VA Department of Veterans Affairs vs. versus (against) WAN Wide Area Network WBE Women Business Enterprise WCCTAC West Contra Costa Transportation Advisory Committee __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Schedule of Upcoming BOS Meetings May 10 May 17 May 24   FHS Packet 5/09/2011 2011 FAMILY AND HUMAN SERVICES COMMITTEE REPORT FROM THE EMPLOYMENT AND HUMAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT ON THE CALFRESH RESTAURANT MEALS PROGRAMS (Also known as SNAP - Formerly known as Food Stamps) Recommendation ACCEPT the report from the Department of Employment and Human Services and request the Department to return to the Committee with an update later in the calendar year after the impacts of the State and Federal budgets on the Department have been determined. Background The Family and Human Services Committee was asked by the Board of Supervisors to review the possibility of including new elements within the services currently provided under the CalFresh Program formerly known as the Food Stamp Program. This program is also referred to as the Federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The CalFresh program helps to improve the health and well-being of qualified households and individuals by providing them a means to meet their nutritional needs. CalFresh is the new name for the Food Stamp Program in California. CalFresh and SNAP are not new programs. The name change had no effect on benefits provided. CalFresh benefits can be used to buy any food or food product that is produced for human consumption. The exception to this is hot foods or lunch courter items prepared or heated in the store. Alcoholic beverages and tobacco, vitamins or medicines, and pet food are also excluded. Seeds and plants for use in home gardens to produce food can also be purchased with CalFresh benefits. The CalFresh Restaurant Meals Program is a federally funded program within the broader SNAP program which has been available at the discretion of each county since 2004. This program allows participants to use CalFresh benefits at specified restaurants. Very few counties are currently participating in this portion of the program. Contra Costa County is not currently participating. Senate Bill 471 is currently pending in the State Legislature. It was last heard by the Committee on April 12, 2001. This bill originally required the State Department of Social Services to prohibit the use of CalFresh benefits at restaurants, including fast-food restaurants. This language was removed from the legislation. The proposed amendments now prohibit the use of CalFresh benefits to purchase beverages with more than 10 calories per cup with specified exceptions.   1 EMPLOYMENT AND HUMAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT CONTRA COSTA COUNTY _________________________________________________________________ DATE: March 14, 2011 TO: Family and Human Services Committee FROM: John Cottrell, Aging and Adult Services Director SUBJECT: CalFresh Restaurant Meals Program ______________________________________________________________________________ The CalFresh Restaurant Meals Program is a federally funded program that allows CalFresh recipients who are elderly (60 and over), disabled, or homeless to use their CalFresh benefits to purchase restaurant prepared meals. There are currently 4,850 households in Contra Costa County who are potentially eligible for this program at this time. The restaurant meals program has been available since 2004. However, very few counties are participating. Employment and Human Services Department (EHSD) staff have contacted these counties in an effort to learn more about the details of administering a restaurant meals program. The costs associated with implementing this program are primarily staffing and administrative. There are several components involved in this process which include: (1) Certifying homeless, elderly and disabled recipients of CalFresh as eligible to purchase low cost healthy meals with CalFresh benefits in restaurant which have entered into Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the county for this purpose, (2) Identifying households entitled to participate in the program for the use of CalFresh benefits at authorized restaurants and (3) Informing those recipients of the names and addresses of participating restaurants. The MOU must contain a requirement that the restaurant provide low cost or discount meals during regular hours to eligible homeless, elderly or disabled persons. Low cost meals are defined as meals that cost less than what would be charged to customers not using CalFresh benefits. Discounted meals are defined as meals already offered to certain consumers or advertised special or sale priced meals offered to all consumers. The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) must approve the EHSD draft MOU, and EHSD must execute an MOU with each restaurant. In addition, each restaurant must agree to abide by all the rules and regulations of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for CalFresh acceptance and redemption. Any restaurant that wishes to enter into a contract with EHSD must submit to USDA a “Meal Service Application” FORM FNS-252-2, with the accompanying verifications. The restaurant must also notify EHSD when it receives authorization of its application. EHSD must also submit to CDSS all draft outreach information that will advertise the restaurant meals program to the restaurant community and to the eligible recipient community including information on standards and availability. 2 Restaurant Participation Participation in the restaurant meals program is open to businesses that offer “hot” prepared meals for purchase. Interested restaurants who want to participate in this program must: ƒ Enter into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Contra Costa County EHSD. ƒ Apply for certification as a Communal Dining Facility with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Completion of FORM FNS-252-2 with required attachments. ƒ Provide an option of low cost meals to CalFresh households. ƒ Not charge service gratuity, sales tax or allow CalFresh benefits to purchase alcohol. EHSD Responsibilities ƒ Identify households entitled to participate in the program for the use of CalFresh benefits at authorized restaurants. ƒ Inform recipients of the names and addresses of participating restaurants. ƒ Develop MOU and publicity sheets for eligible participants and restaurants to submit to CDSS for approval. Publicity sheets are needed to notify restaurants about the requirements of a restaurant meals program and to inform current homeless, elderly and disabled recipients about the requirements and availability of restaurant meals. ƒ Meet with interested parties to discuss MOU, program and USDA requirements and obtain signatures from approved restaurants. ƒ Maintain listing of all active restaurants participating and post in local offices and or county website. Staff will update as needed. ƒ Require participating restaurants to post signage informing patrons of the ability to utilize CalFresh benefits at their location. ƒ Require that participating restaurants submit a menu that is in compliance with federal regualtions which requires low costs meals to be provided to eligible participants. ƒ Contact USDA/ FNS on routine basis to review listing of certified restaurants to ensure compliance. ƒ Develop marketing material for restaurants to participate. This will include a program placard or sign for participating restaurants to inform the public. In addition, outreach information that advertises the restaurant meals program to the restaurant community and to eligible participants. ƒ Enroll and monitor restaurants. ƒ Address any questions or issues from participating restaurants. ƒ Visit restaurants for compliance with low cost menus items as needed. ƒ Identity program outcomes and EBT usage report. ƒ Work with Computer Information Systems and CalWIN units to develop reports that identify all individuals that qualify under the Restaurant meals program. ƒ Develop and maintain program FAQs and list of participating restaurants for Eligibility staff. ƒ Develop and maintain program information on CalFresh web pages on County Website. ƒ Communicate with program staff the eligibility and system requirements. ƒ Identify and incorporate training for eligibility staff on how to update CalWIN’s “Maintain Card Request Window” to allow client to use the EBT card at restaurants. 3 ƒ Identify the ability to update CalWINs “Maintain Card Request Window” to change EBT Restaurant Meals indicator to “yes” which will switch targeted population at one time. This will avoid the need to identify each individual case. Contra Costa County currently has over 62,000 persons receiving CalFresh who access these benefits at local area approved stores and farmers markets. Approximately 9% of these individuals are homeless, elderly or disabled. While CalFresh participation has increased there remains a segment of the population that struggle to acquire “hot” or prepared meals due to lack of residence, proper cooking facilities, and disabilities that limit their ability to prepare food. Other California counties that operate a restaurant meals program have indicated that while it is labor intensive to implement, it has been successful for both recipients and the local economy.   Memorandum of Understanding Between Contra Costa County Employment and Human Services Department And Summary of Services: The Contra Costa County Employment and Human Services Department (EHSD) has developed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with eligible Restaurants for participation in the CalFresh Restaurant Meals program. I. THE RESTAURANT SHALL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE FOLLOWING: A. Provide a low cost meal for breakfast, lunch and / or dinner during regular business hours to eligible homeless, elderly and/or disabled persons. Low cost meals should meet a minimum of one of the following criteria: ƒ Meals that cost less than what would be charged to customers not using CalFresh benefits. ƒ Discounted meals already offered to certain consumers, advertised special or sale priced meals offered to consumers. B. Shall verify patrons’ participation wishing to purchases meals with CalFresh benefits. Participation in the restaurant meals program will be limited to those with valid Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. Establishment shall swipe the EBT card to verify patron is valid participant prior to processing transaction. C. Provide some indoor seating for patrons. D. Post a sign, in a manner and place prescribed by the COUNTY informing the general public of the RESTAURANT’s participation in this program. E. Ensure that participants are not charged the following: ƒ Gratuities ƒ Sales tax F. Ensure that CalFresh benefits are not used to purchase of alcoholic beverages. G. Install EBT equipment, and / or software from an EBT certified presser, if not already installed and be available to service restaurant meal program participants within 60 calendar days of notification from the COUNTY acknowledging United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) certification. H. Must abide by all rules and regulations of the USDA regarding CalFresh acceptance and redemption. I. Be certified by the USDA / FNS prior to participation in the restaurant meals program and shall notify the COUNTY when authorization is received. If restaurant meals program certification expires or is suspended or revoked for any reason, RESTAURANT must notify the COUNTY immediately. J. Provide the COUNTY with a copy of the authorization document upon receipt of same. K. Allow COUNTY staff to conduct onsite visit as needed to review signage and observe client participation. L. Agree to maintain a current public health operating permit issued either by Contra Costa County Health Services Department or by a municipal health department. M. Meet with COUNTY staff as needed to monitor services, exchange pertinent information, resolve problems and work together to coordinate services. II. COUNTY SHALL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE FOLLOWING: A. Verify that the RESTAURANT is interested for certification by USDA / FNS in order to enter into agreement with COUNTY. B. Certify homeless, disabled and elderly CalFresh households to use CalFresh benefits to purchase meals at participating establishments. C. Issue each restaurant meal program eligible household an EBT card, if needed. D. Inform eligible recipients of the name and address of participating restaurants and of the ability of the recipient to purchase low cost meals with CalFresh benefits from these RESTAURANTs. E. Create and distribute publicity sheets (i.e. posters, flyers) to provide restaurants and participants information pertaining the Restaurant Meals program. F. Meet with RESTAURANT staff as needed to monitor services, exchange pertinent information, resolve problems and work together to coordinate services. G. Conduct on site visit as needed to review signage and observe client participation.     AMENDED IN SENATE MARCH 23, 2011 SENATE BILL No. 471 Introduced by Senator Rubio February 17, 2011 An act to add Section 18927 to the Welfare and Institutions Code, relating to public social services. legislative counsel’s digest SB 471, as amended, Rubio.CalFresh. Existing federal law provides for the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly the Food Stamp Program, under which nutrition assistance benefits, formerly referred to as food stamps, are allocated to each state by the federal government. Under existing state law, pursuant to CalFresh, California’s federal allocation is distributed to eligible individuals by each county. Existing law authorizes a county to deliver CalFresh benefits through the use of an electronic benefits transfer (EBT) system and also prohibits recipients from purchasing certain items with their CalFresh benefits. This bill would, to the extent permitted by federal law, require the State Department of Social Services to expand the list of items that are not allowed to be purchased with CalFresh benefits, as prescribed. This bill would also require the department to prohibit the use of CalFresh benefits at restaurants, including fast-food restaurants. modify the list of allowable food items purchasable under CalFresh to prohibit recipients of CalFresh from purchasing with CalFresh benefits sweetened beverages containing more than 10 calories per cup, except that CalFresh benefits would be authorized to be used to purchase juice without added sugar, milk products, and milk substitutes, even if 98 sweetened.The bill would require the department to seek all necessary federal approvals to implement these provisions. To the extent that this bill would increase the duties of county officials that administer CalFresh, this bill would impose a state-mandated local program. The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement. This bill would provide that, if the Commission on State Mandates determines that the bill contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement for those costs shall be made pursuant to these statutory provisions. Vote: majority. Appropriation: no. Fiscal committee: yes. State-mandated local program: yes. The people of the State of California do enact as follows: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 SECTION 1.The Legislature finds and declares all of the following: (a)  Two-thirds of adults and nearly one in three children are overweight or obese in the United States. The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 24.8 percent of Californians are obese. Obesity presents a major financial burden to the state because it is associated with common chronic conditions including heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. The “obesogenic” elements of American society must be addressed to improve both the public health and the fiscal health of the nation. (b)  In May 2010, the White House Task Force on Childhood Obesity called for the nation’s food assistance programs to contribute to the solution required to solve the multifaceted problem of obesity by ensuring access to nutritious foods. Currently, under the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) guidelines for the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), CalFresh recipients have a relatively large degree of freedom with respect to which food products they may purchase with their SNAP dollars, through the Golden State Advantage Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card. There are a number of items, however, that are not allowed to be purchased with the EBT card at point-of-sale, including alcoholic beverages, cigarettes, cat litter, and hot foods. 98 — 2 —SB 471 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 (c)  While the USDA claims that SNAP’s stated goal is to “provide food assistance to raise levels of nutrition among low-income individuals,” recent epidemiological and public health studies focused on California’s SNAP population have indicated that SNAP participants are more likely to be obese than non-SNAP participants. Additionally, soda consumption among participants is significantly higher than nonparticipants. (d)  In response, the Legislature is proposing significant changes to the allowable food items that may be purchased under CalFresh and other relevant food assistance programs administered by the state. It is the intent of the Legislature to ensure that taxpayer dollars are being used to provide staple food items under these programs. Precedent for providing healthy, staple food items can be found in the California administered Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program. (d)  Excess consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages, including, but not limited to, soda, promotes both tooth decay and increased body weight in children while providing few essential nutrients. Additionally, SNAP recipients purchase at least 40 percent more sugar-sweetened beverages than do other consumers, according to the USDA’s National Health and Nutrition Survey. (e)  In response, the Legislature is requesting the State Department of Social Services to seek all necessary federal approvals to modify the list of allowable foods that may be purchased with CalFresh benefits in California to prohibit the purchase of sugar-sweetened beverages, including, but not limited to, sodas, that have little or no nutritional value and contribute to obesity and poor health outcomes. SEC. 2.Section 18927 is added to the Welfare and Institutions Code, to read: 18927.(a)  To the extent permitted by federal law, the State Department of Social Services shall do both of the following: (1)  Expand the list of items that are not allowed to be purchased with federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) dollars under CalFresh to prohibit recipients from purchasing nonstaple, unhealthy foods. The list of prohibited items shall include, but not necessarily be limited to, all of the following: (A)  Sweetened beverages, including sodas. 98 SB 471— 3 — 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 (B)  Sweets, such as jello, candy, ice cream, pudding, popsicles, muffins, sweet rolls, cakes, cupcakes, pies, cobblers, pastries, and doughnuts. (C)  Salty snack foods, such as corn-based salty snacks, pretzels, party mix, popcorn, and potato chips. (2)  Prohibit the use of CalFresh benefits at restaurants, including fast-food restaurants. modify the list of allowable food items that may be purchased with federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program dollars under CalFresh so that no CalFresh benefits may be used to purchase sweetened beverages containing more than 10 calories per cup, except that CalFresh benefits may be used to purchase juice without added sugar, milk products, and milk substitutes, even if sweetened. (b)  The department shall use culturally sensitive campaigns to promote the modifications made to CalFresh pursuant to this section as well as the benefits of healthy and nutritious eating habits. (c)  In implementing this section, the department may collaborate with any public or nongovernmental organizations that promote the health and well-being of all Californians. (d)  The department shall seek all necessary federal approvals to implement this section, which may include a waiver of federal law from the United States Department of Agriculture. SEC. 3.If the Commission on State Mandates determines that this act contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement to local agencies and school districts for those costs shall be made pursuant to Part 7 (commencing with Section 17500) of Division 4 of Title 2 of the Government Code. O 98 — 4 —SB 471 feeding those in need The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as Food Stamps, provides food assistance to more than 42 million low-income individuals and families annually. The U.S. Department of Agriculture funds SNAP. State and county agencies administer the program locally by enrolling recipients and verifying benefit levels. The Need • One in four children and one in eight adults in the United States receives SNAP benefits. • Nearly all--86 percent--of SNAP households are below the poverty level. • SNAP provided $56 billion in assistance nationwide in 2009. In coming years, the program is projected to rise to more than $70 billion. Low Participation Rates • Only one in three elderly people eligible for SNAP participate. • Hispanics also have low utilization rates. • Lack of knowledge of eligibility, poor mobility, stigma and paperwork are among the common barriers to enrollment. Economic Impact • Every dollar provided by SNAP generates $1.73 in employment and other economic activity. • Increased enrollment of eligible recipients also provides federal matching funds to states. Because of low enrollments, some states miss billions of dollars in federal matching funds. How SNAP Works • Benefits are distributed via an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card that looks like a debit card. • EBT card use is limited to authorized retailers, such as groceries and convenience stores. • SNAP benefits may only be used to buy food and non-alcoholic beverages. • Purchase of hot foods and prepared meals is excluded, except as allowed under the Restaurant Meals Program for elderly, disabled and homeless recipients. ABOUT SNAP   THE RESTAURANT MEALS PROGRAM helping to fight hunger Expanding Food Access for Poor Elderly, Disabled and Homeless Americans More than 42 million Americans receive help from the Supplemental Nutrition and Assistance Program (SNAP)—formerly known as Food Stamps. Nearly one in five of these households includes someone aged 60 or older. Under the Restaurant Meals Program, SNAP recipients who are elderly, disabled or homeless can purchase prepared foods at participating restaurants. To qualify, restaurants must first meet eligibility requirements set by the state. They must be authorized to process electronic SNAP payments. Restaurants cannot charge sales or meal taxes on foods purchased with SNAP benefits and must offer low cost meals to these recipients. To participate in the Restaurant Meals Program, each state notifies their regional USDA Food and Nutrition Service EBT coordinator. States provide details about enrollment of elderly, disabled and homeless recipients in the program and how restaurant purchases will be monitored. Benefits of the Restaurant Meal Program also include: • Improved access to prepared food in urban and rural areas, especially for the elderly, disabled and homeless who don’t have kitchens or are not able to prepare or store food for themselves; • Increased enrollment in SNAP for elderly, disabled and homeless recipients, who have some of the lowest enrollment rates in the nation. Just about a third of eligible seniors are enrolled in SNAP, according to the USDA; • Increased access to fruit, vegetables, salads, soup, yogurt, low-fat dairy products, grilled meat, chicken and fish, as well as other healthy food options, now found in most restaurants. A new federal menu labeling law also guides consumers to the more nutritious options; and • Added revenue for cash-strapped states and counties since increasing participation in SNAP provides additional federal matching dollars and incentives.   FOOD ASSISTANCE TO LOW INCOME INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES frequently asked questions SNAP and the Restaurant Meals Program The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as Food Stamps, is a federally funded and state-administered food assistance program. It helps low-income individuals and families with their food purchases. How does it work? The U.S. Department of Agriculture administers SNAP nationally through its Food and Nutrition Service. State and county agencies oversee enrollment and benefits at local levels. Who can receive SNAP benefits? Eligibility is determined by examining finacial resources. The gross monthly income of most households must be 130 percent or less of the Federal poverty guidelines (about $2,389 per month for a family of four). Most able-bodied adult applicants must meet certain work requirements. All household members must provide a Social Security number or apply for one. Find more information at: www.fns.usda.gov/snap/ applicant_recipients/eligibility.htm. How many people use SNAP benefits? More than 42 million Americans—one in eight adults and one in four children—receive SNAP benefits. Approximately 86 percent of all SNAP households are below the poverty line. SNAP enrollment has increased steadily since the recession started. Even so, many more Americans are eligible for SNAP than participate in the program. Only one of every three eligible seniors is registered for SNAP benefits; only about half of eligible Hispanics participate. Lack of awareness of eligibility is one of the common reasons people don’t participate in SNAP. How do individuals apply to receive SNAP benefits? Applications for SNAP benefits are available at local Social Services offices. It’s also possible to phone a Social Services office to request an application be sent by mail. Special accommodations are also made for seniors and others who have limited mobility. Twenty-six states now offer online applications. What is the average SNAP benefit? In August 2010, the average monthly benefit per person was $133.90 and $287.82 per household. How are the benefits distributed? Benefits arrive via an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card, which looks like a standard credit or debit card. It can be used in 162,000 approved retail stores nationwide to purchase food. Electronic payment helps reduce stigma for recipients and makes it easy for food merchants to process the payment. What can SNAP recipients buy with their benefits? Any foods or non-alcoholic beverages can be purchased for home consumption. SNAP benefits cannot be used to buy alcoholic beverages, tobacco products or non-food items, such as pet foods or cleaning supplies. Foods that will be eaten in the store or hot foods, are generally not covered by SNAP benefits. Can SNAP benefits be used in restaurants? In some instances, yes. Since 1977, the Restaurant Meals Program has been a voluntary component of the Federal Food Stamps Act. It enables qualified elderly, disabled and homeless SNAP recipients to buy food at authorized restaurants. Any state or county can enroll in the Restaurant Meals Program. More information is available at: www.fns. usda.gov/snap/applicant_recipients/eligibility.htm#special. What are the benefits of the Restaurant Meals Program? The Restaurant Meals Program helps expand food access to those who do not have a place to store and cook food, who may not be able to prepare food or who don’t have access to a grocery store. The Restaurant Meals Program currently operates in Arizona and Michigan and in a handful of California counties. Other states are also interested in participation. What does a state need to do to participate in the Restaurant Meals Program? No new legislation is required at either the federal or state level to participate. States must simply work with USDA to apply. Typically, the state authorities that administer SNAP notify the USDA regional Food and Nutrition Service EBT coordinator in writing of intent to participate. The state also provides a detailed plan to identify participants for the program and to demonstrate how it will monitor the program. Restaurants in that state may then apply to be authorized to participate. How does a restaurant gain approval to participate in the Restaurant Meals Program? Applications vary from state to state. The restaurant owner signs an agreement with the state stipulating that the restaurant meets basic government requirements to participate, including the ability to process EBT card payments at the point of sale. There is also a USDA application to become a licensed SNAP provider. Both the USDA application and the signed state agreement are sent to the USDA field office for approval. An application must be completed for each restaurant location that wishes to accept SNAP benefits. Restaurants cannot charge a sales or meal tax on prepared foods purchased with SNAP benefits. Restaurants must also offer low cost options and must agree not to accept SNAP benefits for gratuities. How do restaurants get the machines and software to process SNAP purchases? State SNAP authorities typically provide these machines at low or no cost to participating restaurants. It is also possible to integrate SNAP payments into an existing Point of Service (POS) system. The USDA Food and Nutrition Service requires the use of special software that allows the machines to process only eligible food for SNAP beneficiaries. Find more information at: www.fns.usda.gov/ snap/rules/Default.htm How do states benefit when eligible people participate in SNAP? States receive full federal funding for each person enrolled in SNAP and matching federal dollars for program administration. When eligible recipients don’t enroll, they miss out on federal food dollars, and states don’t get matching federal funds. A recent study found that California alone could have received nearly $5 billion more in federal funding, but didn’t because of having one of the lowest SNAP participation rates in the nation. SNAP AND THE RESTAURANT MEALS PROGRAM SNAP California Restaurant Meals Program SNAP BackgroundWhat is SNAP?• SNAP is a federal program administered through the Food and Nutrition Service of the USDA that helps low income people and families buy the food they need for good health. The program is operated by state and local welfare offices. • SNAP recipients apply for benefits through the states and then receive an EBT card, like an ATM card, that contains their benefits. These cards can be used at most grocery stores and some restaurants.How Many People Receive SNAP Benefits?• In FY 2009, 33.7 million people participated in SNAP in a given month. On average, these SNAP recipients received a monthly benefit of $124.45. Overall, 66 percent of the eligible population receives SNAP benefits. By 2012 the program is projected to serve 44 million people.Can Restaurants Accept SNAP Benefits?• It is up to individual states to make this decision although federal guidelines specify that only SNAP recipients who are part of the homeless, elderly or disabled population may use their benefits to purchase hot foods. States that currently authorize restaurant participation are Arizona, California (Limited Counties), Florida (pilot program), Hawaii, Michigan. Los Angeles County ProgramTo participate in the Los Angeles County SNAP Program restaurateurs must complete the following steps: 1) Restaurants must enter into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) agreement with Los Angeles County. 2) Participating restaurants must be approved to accept food stamp benefits by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and agree to abide by all rules and regulations for food stamp acceptance and redemption. 3) Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards are used to access food stamp benefits throughout LA County. 4) Meal purchases using EBT cards are usually reimbursed to retailers within 48 hours. Los Angeles County Restaurant Meals Program web site -http://www.ladpss.org/dpss/restaurant_meals/RMP_owner_info.cfm San Francisco County ProgramTo participate in the San Francisco SNAP Program: 1) Franchisees must email the contact below and request a Restaurant Meals Program Application. A application packet will be mailed to you. 2) Fill out the application packet completely and enclose a self addressed stamped envelope. 3) Please ensure that copies of their ID, Social Security card, Business Registration Certificate and Board of Equalization permit are submittedSF Restaurant Meals Program web site -http://www.sfhsa.org/156.htmLota Torres-Clemente - Program Specialist/Lead WorkerFood Stamps ProgramPhone: (415) 558-4153Email: Lota.Torres-Clemente@sfgov.orgSan Sacramento County ProgramTo participate in the Sacramento Program, restaurateurs should contact the County Dept. of Human Assistance (see below) for an application and must complete and submit the following information:1) Copy of current business license.2) Photo ID [ e.g. drivers license (front and back), passport, military ID] for all owners, partners, corporate officers, shareholders and their spouses, if applicable.3) Copy of Social Security Card or acceptable verification of Social Security for all owners, partners, corporate officers, shareholders and their spouses, if applicable.4) Submit a completed and signed USDA Food Stamp Application for Meal Services, (Form FNS-252-2). (Note: A separate application is required by the same owner for up to 5 restaurants owned. Owners who own 6 or more restaurants will be allowed to submit one application.)5) Submit three Memorandums of Understanding with original signatures. (Prepared by Sacramento County Department of Human Assistance, DHA).6) Submit a completed and signed Resolution (Prepared by Sacramento County DHA.) Once received, the County office will review the information for completeness and forward to the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) for processing and approval.7) Corporate: Please list one location on the application and then on a spread sheet list all other locations (including all information that is listed on Part 3 of the application). A business license is mandatory for each location and an MOU for each location. The application must be signed by a company officer/ legal. Photo IDs and Social Security are required.Nancy ScheiberSacramento County Department of Human Assistancescheibern@saccounty.net Frequently Asked Questions What is the purpose of the Restaurant Meals Program? The Food Stamp Restaurant Meals Program is a voluntary component of the Federal Food Stamps Act. It enables the homeless, elderly (age 60 or over), and disabled food stamp households to purchase prepared meals at participating restaurants. Its goal is to provide a variety of nutritious meal choices to eligible food stamp households.I have more than one restaurant. Can I apply for all my restaurants to participate in the Restaurant Meals Program? Yes, currently there is no limit as to the number of restaurants authorized to participate in the Restaurant Meals Program throughout LA County. In line with our commitment to provide a variety of nutritious meal choices to the homeless, disabled and elderly food stamp households, we are continuously inviting restaurant owners to participate in this program. Frequently Asked QuestionsHow long does it take to become an authorized restaurant? The entire process to become authorized takes approximately 60 days.How do I know if a customer who provides a Golden State Advantage (EBT) card is eligible for the Restaurant Meals Program? The state issued Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) equipment or your EBT integrated Point-of-Sale (POS) devise has an Automated Eligibility Identifier that enables to automatically identify if an EBT card can be processed for the Food Stamp Restaurant Meals Program. EBT cards work similar to ATM and credit cards. Frequently Asked Questions What happens if a participating restaurant changes ownership or closes for business? The owner must notify the Department of Public Social Services (DPSS), Food Stamp and Nutrition Program and the Food Stamp and Nutrition Service (FNS) when a restaurant changes ownership or closes. This ensures that the authorization is cancelled immediately since the previous owner’s authorization is NOT TRANSFERABLE. If the new owner wants to continue to participate in the Restaurant Meals Program, he/she must sign an MOU with the County of Los Angeles and apply for authorization with the FNS. Are there any fees that I must pay to participate in the Restaurant Meals Program? There are no fees/dues that a restaurant owner must pay for the Restaurant Meals Program.