SNAP program changes expand to Deschutes County

On Jan. 1, there will be changes that some Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients in Clatsop, Deschutes, Jackson, Linn, Polk, and Tillamook counties may notice. The mandatory Employment and Training program is expanding to recipients categorized as Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD) who don’t qualify for an exemption from the SNAP time limits.

Expanding the Employment & Training program allows recipients access to enhanced resources in employment assistance and skill-building and help this population remove barriers that may be keeping them from securing a job, officials said Wednesday.

DHS has partnered with WorkSource Oregon to provide these services, as well as job search, job search training, GED and ESL classes or several short-term education or vocational training opportunities to help these Oregonians find employment.

SNAP households that may be affected by this policy change have been notified. For questions about the policy or to verify exemption status to prevent a possible disruption or reduction in benefits, the agency encouraged participants to contact their local DHS branch.

More information about the SNAP program is available online at https://www.oregon.gov/DHS/ASSISTANCE/FOOD-BENEFITS/Pages/About-SNAP.aspx.

This program is already in effect in Benton, Clackamas, Lane, Marion, Multnomah, Washington and Yamhill counties. Program recipients who meet the definition of ABAWD in these counties may become eligible for SNAP benefits if their case had been closed or reduced for not completing work requirements, as the 36-month time clock will be reset and starting Jan. 1, recipients will be eligible for an additional three months of benefits.

ABAWDs are individuals between the ages of 18-49 without a child in their case; they are required to participate in qualifying employment and training activities to maintain SNAP eligibility. Individuals who fail to meet the ABAWD work requirements are restricted to receiving SNAP bene?ts for three months within a 36-month period. Individuals that have or meet an exemption are not subject to the SNAP time limit.

Exempt individuals include pregnant women, individuals performing work activities at least 20 or more hours per week, and individuals mentally or physically unable to work. Qualifying Employment and Training activities consist of:

Working 20 hours a week (paid or unpaid); Education and/or Training activities; or Workfare (community service with a public or private nonpro?t organization).