What's new at MLS

There’s  been a lot of media since the early December  release of federal SNAP rules that impact individuals age 18 to 50 who are “able bodied without dependents” or “ABAWDs.”  What’s happening is very confusing, much like learning a new dance step…

It's time to register for MLRI's SNAP 101 Advocacy Training at Mass Continuing Legal Education in Boston on Wednesday February 5th!     In addition to the SNAP basics and important updates in SNAP land, you will receive a hot-off-the-press paperback copy…

Hello Everyone, January 1 always ushers in changes in health care coverage programs from open enrollment to annual cost of living adjustments.  Listed below are some of the Jan 1 health related changes that you may find useful to know. And let's not forget the Massachusetts minimum wage…

Today is the 6th Day of 2020 - Happy New Decade!  Hope you are all rested up from the holidays for the battles that lie ahead in SNAPland!  And remember to use the hashtag, #HandsOffSNAP     We are writing with a couple of important updates and…

USDA has released some very useful demographic information for your advocacy work, a cautionary alert about SNAP scammer,  and two upcoming Webinars for Spanish speakers.  Check it out!  1) SNAP Demographics by Congressional Districts: Using SNAP program data and information…

TO:  Food SNAP Coalition Members FR:  Pat Baker Happy Veterans Day and Happy 11-11-11.  We wanted to be sure you saw today's Globe editorial exhorting local cities and towns to reach out to local veterans and their families in financial need and help them access…

We received a copy of the email below llate last week announcing a change in the guard at DTA. Julia Kehoe will be moving over to EOHHS to take on a new Senior Policy Development position and Daniel Curley of the Justice Resource Institute will be taking the DTA helm. EOHHS Secretary Dr. Bigby's…

This is late breaking news, and many of you may not have even known trouble was brewing.  Late last night the U.S. Senate voted DOWN a proposal to cut SNAP benefits including BOTH our Massachusetts Senators John Kerry and Scott Brown!! The vote was 41 Yes to 58 Nays on one very harmful amendment.…

Sending Client Documents to DTA Boston Web SNAP Unit – Secure Email OptionFollwing recent discussions with the Boston Centralized Web Unit about ways to improve SNAP application processing, agencies that serve clients in theBoston Web Unit catchment areas have the opportunity to set up secure…

A number of changes in "SNAP math" went into effect October 1st to implement the annual cost of living adjustments (COLA). The gross, net and 165% income eligibility standards have increased slightly (note that the 200% level has remained the same; this generally changes in the spring, not…