PHA, Senior Support Coalition Oppose Asset Test for SNAP Program

The Senior Support Coalition, of which PHA is a member, is speaking out against a proposal by the state Department of Public Welfare to re-impose an asset test for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

In a letter sent to Gov. Tom Corbett to protest the plan, which is scheduled to take effect in May, the coalition states that an asset test will be particularly punishing to older adults struggling to survive in the current economy.

Under the plan, people under 60 with more than $2,000 in savings and other assets would no longer be eligible for food stamps. For people over 60, the limit would be $3,250.

"Many of those older adults have set aside assets for significant expenditures like emergency home repairs, property taxes or even funeral plans," said Vicki Hoak, PHA chief executive officer. "Having those funds count against eligibility for SNAP benefits could threaten the ability of low income older adults to remain in their homes."

Click here to read the full text of the letter.

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