Dig Deeper

I was recently reminded that the way in which we offer services to our clients has a huge impact on the likelihood of the client accessing those services. Here’s what happened:

Tyler and I were going about our typical routine, setting up our computers, printer, and work station when our host began to introduce The Ohio Benefit Bank as a visiting service provider. Nothing but blank stares.

Just to make sure everyone got the message, I walked the room one person at a time, introducing myself and asking if they had any questions about the programs for which we could help them apply. Finally a question: “Why do I only receive $16 in food stamps?” I was thrilled, not only because there was a question, but because I was prepared to answer this one. I responded, “It’s an income-based program. The minimum benefit amount is $16, but that should cover the basics: bread, milk, and eggs.” The conversation went from work to rent to hobbies, until I identified two additional benefits they were eligible for: HEAP and Golden Buckeye.

So what’s the point? Sometimes we can all be inclined to offer assistance, without really taking the time to listen to others. Dig Deeper! Have a conversation! Get to know their needs and the barriers they’re facing and you’ll be able to provide a much more meaningful intervention.

Budget Cuts: Not Quite a SNAP

As you have probably noticed, ‘budget cuts’ have become a pretty popular topic in recent months and with the nation $16.3 trillion in debt, it probably ought to be. The question on a lot of our minds, including myself, is how will budget cuts affect the clients we serve?

As someone who drives around the state helping people in need access benefits, I can see firsthand how those cuts would impact our nation’s ‘safety-net’ programs. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly referred to as ‘food stamps’, is perhaps the most critical safety-net program as it provides a means for purchasing food; food that helps children learn and grow, helps adults maintain productivity at work, and helps seniors in the most vulnerable time of their lives.

But what can we, as people who help our neighbors in need, do to protect these programs? Fortunately, those folks out in D.C. and in our state capitol work for the people and they want to hear from you! Two easy ways to let your Senators and Representatives know where you stand are: writing a letter and calling them on the phone. You can use our locator to identify and contact the correct elected official.

If you are able, I encourage you or your organization to read and sign our petition to support the Ohio Food Program and Agricultural Clearance Program, which allows Ohio’s foodbanks to purchase nutritious food such as surplus and unmarketable produce from Ohio farmers and growers (read more here). Simply enter your information and select ‘sign petition.’ You can also stay informed of critical issues by signing up to receive advocacy alerts.

Reducing our national debt isn’t quite a “snap”. Changes that are made today will have long-term implications on our country’s future.  It is absolutely critical that our officials know how WE would like OUR money spent. Let your voice be heard!