FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 29^th, 2012

Paulsen and McCollum Introduce Legislation to Help Minnesota Seniors Utilize SNAP Benefits

Bill makes it easier for homebound seniors to purchase food

Washington, D.C. – Representative Erik Paulsen (MN-03) and Representative Betty McCollum (MN-04) today introduced legislation aimed at ensuring Minnesota’s homebound seniors don’t go hungry. Current law prevents seniors on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) from using their benefits to pay for food delivered to them by nonprofit organizations. This makes it extremely difficult for seniors who are unable to leave their homes to acquire food.  The Enhancing Nutrition Services to the Elderly and Disabled Act will update the law so that these seniors can use SNAP benefits to pay for food provided to them by delivery services.

“In these tough economic times, it increasingly difficult for organizations in Minnesota that work to feed homebound seniors to provide this important service,” said Rep. Paulsen. “This bill will help struggling homebound seniors in our state and around the country gain access to the vital food services they need. I look forward to working in a bipartisan manner to see its passage.” 

“Store to Door is one of Minnesota’s great nonprofits, and I’m proud to represent them in Congress,” said Rep. McCollum. “I am pleased to work with Representative Paulsen on this legislation to help Store to Door keep seniors in their homes by delivering groceries and critical medications.”

Co-Chairs of the House Hunger Caucus, Jo Ann Emerson (MO-08)  and James McGovern (MA-03) are also original sponsors of the legislation.

Read the text of the bill here. 

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