Food stamp usage down in Erie County

SANDUSKY — Compared to recent history, qualifying Erie County residents don't crave food stamps as much these days.Within a five-year period, 2012 through 2016, the number of county-based electronic benefit transfer (EBT) accounts have dropped about 20 percent."It's down because we have been coming out of the recession," said Karen Balconi Ghezzi, the Erie County Job and Family Services executive director. Balconi Ghezzi added the county doesn't pay for this program. It's funded through both the state and federal governments.In the near future, and to cut down on fraud, new state regulations call for including the recipient's photo on each card, similar to a driver's license.In Erie County, the number isn't shockingly high: just less than 13 percent of county residents live below the poverty line, according to the most recent U.S. Census data estimates. It basically mirrors the national average of 13.5 percent.If each account equals one person, almost 5,000 in 2016, the number of county residents receiving food stamp benefits totals about 7 percent. There's no limit on how many county residents can receive food stamps, although eligibility is based on individual or household incomes.The following is a Q&A on food stamps with the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services.Q: What is food assistance?A: The Food Assistance Program, formerly the food stamp program, helps eligible, low-income Ohioans stretch their food budgets and buy healthy food.Q: How do I qualify for benefits?A: You may qualify for benefits if your household's gross monthly income is at, or less than, 130 percent of the federal poverty guidelines. Other factors in determining eligibility include the number of people in a household and resources, such as cash, savings and stocks.Q: How can I apply?A: A few ways:• Go to ODJFSBenefits.Ohio.gov • Stop by the Erie County Job and Family Services building, 221 W. Parish St., SanduskyTo apply, you'll need various forms of identification, including a Social Security card and proof of income. Call the department beforehand, 419-626-6781, to figure out exactly what you need to bringQ: What can I buy with food assistance benefits?A: You can use your food assistance benefits to buy most food or food products, with the exception of alcoholic beverages; tobacco; vitamins and/or medicines; hot-food products prepared to be eaten immediately; non-food items, such as pet food, paper products, soaps and household supplies.Source: Ohio Department of Job and Family ServicesIn Erie County, accounts for food stamps, also known as electronic benefit transfer (EBT), are down about 20 percent over a five-year period.