In an effort to combat food insecurity in New Orleans, Councilmember Helena Moreno has announced a collaboration between the Louisiana Department of Children & Family Services (DCFS) and several local institutions to provide in-person assistance with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) applications. According to a statement made by the New Orleans City Council, Ochsner Health, Goodwill Industries, and the New Orleans Public Library will serve as hubs where residents can get help completing applications, resolving account issues, and gaining information about resources such as the Family Independence Temporary Assistance Program (FITAP) and the Kinship Care Subsidy Program (KCSP).
Councilmember Moreno stressed the severity of the food crisis in New Orleans, noting, "I wanted to ensure the public was aware that DCFS has partnered with Ochsner, Goodwill and our public libraries to bring direct assistance to New Orleanians and their families looking to receive SNAP, FITAP and KCSP benefits," as per the City of New Orleans. With Goodwill offering assistance in completion of SNAP applications, Goodwill Industries has made strides to support New Orleanians who are navigating food insecurity that affects 16.4 percent of Orleans Parish residents.
Hunger and health are not separate entities, but intertwined challenges that exacerbate each other. Those in New Orleans facing a lack of nourishment face an uphill battle, one where poor nutrition and hunger can lead to an increased risk of illness and mental health issues. This initiative aims to alleviate the anxiety surrounding food security and, by doing so, have a broader impact on the well-being of the community.
Food insecurity doesn't just empty the stomach, it impacts the mind, school performance, workplace productivity, and even spirals into higher healthcare costs. As Councilmember Moreno emphasized, "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," as reported by the City of New Orleans. By providing assistance through partnerships, DCFS hopes to create a safety net which ensures that residents have the basic sustenance required to thrive.
