Eligible Virginia residents encouraged to enroll in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance ProgramPhoto byPublic Domain/Wikipedia Screenshot

According to WRIC 8 News on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, a recent report by the National Council on Aging and the Urban Institute has highlighted a significant issue in Virginia.

The significant issue in Virginia

Despite being eligible, thousands of residents are not utilizing the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

The findings indicate that over 100,000 Virginians who qualify for the food assistance program are missing SNAP benefits because they have failed to enroll.

By the numbers

About 70.2% of Americans eligible for SNAP are not taking advantage of the food assistance program. About 9 million people nationwide struggle to buy groceries daily when they don't have to.

The report shows that Virginia has 109,536 eligible people across various counties who have not enrolled. That means only 37.4% of eligible Virginians take advantage of SNAP benefits.

• Henrico County has 4,773 eligible seniors who are not enrolled.
• Richmond has 3,274 has eligible seniors who are not enrolled.
• Chesterfield County has 3,247 eligible seniors who are not enrolled.

The President and CEO of the National Council on Aging calls the situation “shocking and unacceptable.” The organization emphasizes that many older adults are missing out on essential assistance that could significantly improve their quality of life.

Ramsey Alwin, NCOA President and CEO, said:

"It’s shocking and unacceptable to have nine million eligible older adults not enrolled in benefits that can make the difference between them affording food or health care each month. These individuals are struggling to afford basic necessities, and they are missing out on critical assistance."

Ramsey Alwin, NCOA President and CEO.

Enrollment is simple

Older adults and those who care for older adults should contact the Virginia Department of Social Services’ website. Enrollment in the program will eliminate the struggle of paying for groceries each month.