CHI St. Vincent Helps Seniors With SNAP Benefits

In January, CHI St. Vincent partnered with several organizations to help senior citizens in Hot Springs by hosting a SNAP outreach event.

The hospital alongside Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance SNAP Outreach, Hot Springs Area Community Foundation, The Giving Team Inc. and Project HOPE Food Bank held this event for Aristocrat Manor residents.

According to the Alliance SNAP outreach manager, 15 residents were able to fill out applications and given referrals for resources.

“Food insecurity impacts a person’s quality of life. It worsens health and is associated with diabetes, heart disease, obesity, and more. Food insecurity leads to higher healthcare costs for those experiencing it compared to those who aren’t. There’s also a great deal of shame associated with hunger. However, the literature also tells us that SNAP benefits reduce food insecurity. Our solution focused approach has been collaborative and proactive to find folks in need and serve them in place to decrease health disparities, increase health equity, and live our mission – improving health, especially for the most vulnerable,” said Mandy Davis, Community Outreach Director.