Press Release

October 1, 2009
CARDIN, MIKULSKI ANNOUNCE $1.4 MILLION BONUS GRANT FOR MARYLAND BECAUSE OF IMPROVEMENTS TO ITS SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM


WASHINGTON –
U.S. Senators Benjamin L. Cardin and
Barbara A. Mikulski (both D-MD) today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has awarded Maryland a one-time bonus grant of $1,420,511 for “most improved access” in providing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.
  SNAP, formerly the Food Stamp Program, serves more than 35 million Americans and 359,000 Marylanders each month.



 


“During these difficult economic times, it’s critical that those in need receive the nutritional support they are entitled to in a timely manner,” said
Senator Cardin.
  “I am proud that Maryland has met that challenge and is now being rewarded with a grant that will enable the State to make even greater improvements to the program.”



 


“During these tough economic times, people need a government on their side. Families are struggling. Parents are losing jobs – I don’t want kids losing meals,”
Senator Mikulski said. “I’m so proud of Maryland. We were able to meet these increased demands, and more. This grant is a testament to our commitment to making sure every eligible person received the meals and nutritional support they needed when they needed it.”



 


Each year, USDA awards a total of $12 million in performance bonuses to eight States with the best and most improved program access index, which is the category for Maryland’s award.
  It also awards $6 million to six States with the highest rate of timely processed applications, an important indicator of customer service in administering the Program. The SNAP bonus grant program was established in the 2008 Farm Bill.

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