February 19, 2010

Online Food Stamp Application Now Available to Nassau County Residents
Website Eases Access to Vital Benefits for New Yorkers

Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano announced today that County residents can now apply directly for food stamps online through the State’s website, www.myBenefits.ny.gov.

The myBenefits site enables individuals to apply directly for food stamps from any computer with Internet access, at any time convenient for them. Nassau is one of 16 counties that presently offer this capability.

“Many Nassau County residents have been hit by this economic crisis and find themselves in need of services. The myBenefits website makes applying for food stamp assistance significantly easier,” said Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano.

“We are continuing to do all we can to help struggling New Yorkers get through these difficult times and achieve economic security,” said Governor David A. Paterson. “We recognize that many of those hard hit by the downturn have never sought help before, and we want to make it as easy as possible for those who are eligible to obtain benefits. Nassau County residents can now apply for food stamps through the myBenefits site without having to take time off from work, or from looking for work. They won’t have to visit the local department of social services to apply.”

 “I am pleased that Nassau County residents have access to this important tool, and we will continue to do everything we can to help our residents during these difficult times,” said Social Services Commissioner John Imhof.

“The Health & Welfare Council of Long Island is extremely excited to partner with New York State and the Nassau County Department of Social Services to roll out myBenefits to Nassau County residents,” said Gwen O'Shea, President/CEO of the Health & Welfare Council of Long Island. “Foods stamps are a vital component in addressing the issue of hunger on Long Island. Our hope is to make sure every resident receives the benefits they are eligible for.”

Those facing the loss of unemployment benefits, collecting unemployment, or just having a hard  time getting by financially, should visit www.myBenefits.ny.gov to see what assistance may be available to them.

For further information about local DSS programs, please visit http://www.nassaucountyny.gov/agencies/DSS/index.html or contact the Department of Social Services Customer Service unit at 516- 227- 7474.