Beverly and Harry Burton , Durhamville Food stamps can help the elderly This past winter was long, cold, and difficult for many because of energy costs. Some of the hardest hit at times like these are those with fixed incomes, especially the elderly, who often rely only on small Social Security or pension checks to get by. With the cost of living rising all the time, these checks have to be stretched further and further in order for seniors to make ends meet. Paying for food, housing, heat, electricity, telephone, medicine, and other essentials becomes more of a problem every day. One source of relief can be the Food Stamp program.
Food stamps are credits on an electronic card.
They can be spent on food items at grocery stores or donated to services, such as Meals on Wheels. Any organization that provides food to older adults is authorized to accept food stamps. There are special rules regarding food stamps for those over 60. Seniors may be eligible even if their income is above the federal poverty level after rent or mortgage payments, utility costs, and medical expenses. Everyone who applies and qualifies will receive food stamps.