NEW ORLEANS — With new federal rules requiring more in-person identity verification for Social Security benefits and other assistance programs, New Orleans residents now have expanded locations to get help with SNAP applications, account updates, and other critical services.
In a news release from New Orleans City Council Vice President Helena Moreno’s office, the Louisiana Department of Children & Family Services (DCFS) has partnered with Ochsner Health, Goodwill Industries, and the New Orleans Public Library to provide in-person assistance for those needing help applying for:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Family Independence Temporary Assistance Program (FITAP)
- Kinship Care Subsidy Program (KCSP)
“New Orleans faces a pressing food security crisis, with 62,320 residents or 16.4 percent of Orleans Parish experiencing food insecurity, a challenge that is particularly prevalent among our senior population,” Moreno said in the release. “We know that food insecurity increases the risk of adverse health outcomes, impacts mental health, is linked to higher healthcare costs, and can negatively impact school and workplace productivity. It is critical that residents are aware of these programs that provide direct support to low-income households to buy nutritious food and alleviate hunger.”
For New Orleans residents, these local assistance centers will provide help to people so they can access the benefits with in-person help.
Where to Get In-Person Assistance in New Orleans
Ochsner Health Centers
- Westbank – 4225 Lapalco Blvd. (Mon & Tues, 9 AM – 2:30 PM)
- Baptist (Napoleon Ave.) – 2700 Napoleon Ave. (Wed, 9 AM – 2:30 PM)
- Jefferson – 1514 Jefferson Hwy (Tues, 9 AM – 2:30 PM)
- Gretna – 91 Westbank Expressway, Suite 440 (Thurs, 10 AM – 2:30 PM)
New Orleans Public Libraries
- Main Library (Downtown) – 219 Loyola Ave. (Mon, 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM)
- Norman Meyer Library (Gentilly) – 3001 Gentilly Blvd. (Wed, 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM)
- New Orleans East Library – 5641 Read Blvd. (Thurs, 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM)
- St. Bernard Parish (Chalmette) Library – 2600 Palmisano Blvd. (Mon, 10:00 AM – 2:30 PM)
Goodwill Industries
- 3400 Tulane Ave. (Wed & Thurs, 10 AM – 2:30 PM)
For more details, visit the DCFS website at www.dcfs.la.gov…