AARP Helps Forsyth County Seniors Sign Up for Food Stamps

As 2012 gets underway, AARP Foundation is stepping up its campaign to enroll older Georgians in the SNAP/Food Stamp program by extending its enrollment opportunities into Forsyth County this weekend and on Friday, March 2.

According to AARP, approximately two-thirds of eligible older Georgians are not enrolled in the program, which provides additional resources to struggling households.

“There’s a definite need at all levels,” said Janie Walker, associate state director, outreach, at AARP Georgia. “After years of recession, many households are faced with the choice of buying food or paying bills.”

Backed by AARP Foundation, the program has helped nearly 800 Georgians apply for the program since the drive began in September. The campaign focused on counties in the Atlanta region and is expanding into other selected counties in 2012.

To apply, applicants are asked to bring a Social Security award letter, or proof of residency like a bill with their address on it, or an ID card, and information about income and expenses. It typically takes four weeks for an application to be processed.

AARP Georgia will be helping applicants fill out forms on today from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and again on Friday, March 2, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the located at 585 Dahlonega Road in Cumming.

“If you know of anyone who can benefit, please tell them about this opportunity,” said Walker. “Now that the holidays are over, many people are struggling to create a better life for themselves during the New Year. This can help.”

For more information, call 877-957-SNAP (7627).

About the AARP Foundation

AARP Foundation is working to win back opportunity for struggling Americans 50+ by being a force for change on the most serious issues they face today: housing, hunger, income and isolation. By coordinating responses to these issues on all four fronts at once, and supporting them with vigorous legal advocacy, the Foundation serves the unique needs of those 50+ while working with local organizations nationwide to reach more people, work more efficiently and make resources go further. AARP Foundation is a charitable affiliate of AARP. Visit the AARP Foundation Website to learn more about the organization.