TITLE
Title
DHHS- DIVISION OF SOCIAL SERVICES - ECONOMIC SERVICES UPDATE
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SPONSOR
Sponsor
Heather Skeens (Elizabeth White)
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BACKGROUND
Background
Over the past several years, you’ve heard about rising caseloads, applications and processing times and the need for additional staff in the Economic Services division. What is often overlooked is the significant economic impact on businesses and families that these services offer. This presentation will provide a snapshot of how these critical services that are provided translate to enhancing the standard of living for families and the tremendous impact on Guilford county’s economy.
Food and Nutrition Services (FNS)
The USDA’s Food and Nutrition Services program administered by Guilford county provides approximately 40,720 families and 67,668 individuals with assistance to purchase food each month. Currently, throughout Guilford county, there are 524 supermarkets, convenience and grocery stores that accept EBT benefits. During the month of August 2017, approximately, $10,324,944 in benefits were issued to eligible families and individuals.
Medicaid
North Carolina Medicaid is the joint-funded Federal and State health insurance program for low-income families and disabled individuals. Recipients of Medicaid include children, families, the aged, blind and disabled populations. Approximately, 115,589 individuals in Guilford county receive medical assistance through the Medicaid program. More than 1,019 hospitals, doctors, facilities and pharmacies are paid for services through Medicaid throughout the county. During FY 2016, the average amount paid each month for medical services through Medicaid for Guilford county recipients totaled $37,099,615.
Crisis Intervention Prevention
The Crisis Intervention Program (CIP) is a federally-funded program that can assist eligible individuals and families with cooling or heating related emergencies. Effective July 1, 2017, this program is managed and administered through Social Services.
Over the last year 948 applications were taken. Of the applications taken, 866 were approved. During the month of August 2017, $167,876 in benefits were paid for heating and cooling emergencies to two energy providers.
Subsidized Childcare
The need for childcare in Guilford county is an economic necessity. The Subsidized Childcare program offers low income households access to quality and affordable childcare.
In Guilford county there are approximately 3,536 children that receive subsidized childcare assistance. More than 300 local childcare homes and centers are paid for services for these children to attend. During the month of August 2017 $1,772,776 in subsidy payments were paid to these childcare providers in Guilford county.
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BUDGET IMPACT
Budget Impact
NO ADDITIONAL COUNTY DOLLARS
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REQUESTED ACTION
Requested Action
Receive DHHS - Social Services Division updates on Economic Services impact on local economy.
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