To: Board of Supervisors
From: DHHS: Social Services
Agenda Section: Consent
SUBJECT:
title
Professional Services Agreement with United Indian Health Services to Increase Utilization of CalFresh Benefits by Eligible Households
end
RECOMMENDATION(S):
Recommendation
That the Board of Supervisors:
1. Approve, and authorize the Chair of the Board to execute, the attached Professional Services Agreement with United Indian Health Services (UIHS) to assist the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to increase utilization of CalFresh benefits by eligible households in an amount not to exceed $281,680.94; and
2. Direct the Clerk of the Board to route the executed agreement to the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS)-Contract Unit for forwarding to DHHS-Social Services Administration.
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SOURCE OF FUNDING:
Social Services Fund 1160
DISCUSSION:
The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) administers all United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) SNAP funds. Focusing on the important role SNAP plays in access to nutrition and the relation of nutrition to overall wellness, CDSS renamed and re-branded food stamps as CalFresh in California. Beyond the name and image changes, CDSS also made significant program changes to increase CalFresh use by reducing enrollment and retention barriers. Many low-income individuals and families continue to not be fully aware of and do not apply for CalFresh benefits. Many others are not aware of program changes that can make it easier for them to receive and continue CalFresh benefits.
USDA and CDSS have encouraged counties to work with community partners to help reach and inform community members who might be eligible for CalFresh benefits. Partnering with community based organizations is not only consistent with DHHS's general approach and strategic plan; it is key to DHHS' goal of providing integrated, place-based and holistic services. This continuing work through outreach part...
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