NEW: “I Speak” & “I Understand” Improving Language Access for SNAP Benefits in Indiana Report
SNAP is intended to help low-income households struggling to put nutritious food on the table. However administrative & language barriers in the SNAP enrollment system often prevent marginalized groups from receiving benefits that they are eligible for. Informed by the Food Justice Fellow’s first-year work and conversations with state partners and SNAP stakeholders, the “I Speak” & “I Understand” Report discusses key findings on FSSA’s current language access efforts and numerous opportunities available to improve access for Limited English Proficiency (LEP) Hoosiers applying for public benefits.
Here are some key findings from our conversations:
FSSA has, and continues to, engage in language access.
Stakeholder and community feedback will improve language access.
Removing Social Security Number as an identifier would increase access to the online Benefits Portal.
Adding new languages that are being frequently seen in the drop-down menu for translation of the online portal mitigates the administrative burden seen by beneficiaries and agency staff.
Having a readily accessible process to address complaints with local DFR offices and call centers allows participants to voice their concerns and ensures compliance with language access requirements.
Read all of the “I Speak” & “I Understand” Report here!
If you have comments or suggestions, feel free to reach out to the Food Justice Fellow to engage in meaningful conversation!