Social Services
SNAP theft reimbursements could end for many without congressional action by Friday
Senators are also urging the Agriculture Department to speed up its rulemaking around card security that could help prevent the problem.
Can AI help government prevent homelessness?
A predictive model is helping Los Angeles authorities link people at risk of homelessness to assistive services to keep them housed.
New fellowship program looks to help policymakers improve civic tech
The initiative will provide state and local governments insights on how to improve online tools and services for their residents.
Residents urged to protect their EBT cards against skimming devices
Local and federal authorities are investigating the electronic skimming devices that can steal a cardholder’s account details, including their PIN code.
This Atlanta neighborhood hired a case manager to address rising homelessness—and it’s improving health and safety for everyone
COMMENTARY | Hiring a social worker to help people experiencing homelessness is a sharp contrast to the punitive approach condoned by the Supreme Court.
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Slow progress towards more secure EBT cards highlights the challenges ahead for states
The U.S. Agriculture Department doesn’t have a timeline for fully moving food assistance accounts to industry-standard chip cards, leaving beneficiaries vulnerable to digital theft.
State, local guaranteed income programs set the stage for federal action
A growing body of research shows that local-level cash assistance initiatives can improve financial, housing and other outcomes for recipients. Federal lawmakers are taking notice.
Errors in Deloitte-run Medicaid systems can cost millions and take years To fix
Twenty-five states have awarded Deloitte contracts for eligibility systems totally at least $6 billion, giving the company a stronghold in a lucrative segment of the government benefits business.
More than 17 million older Americans miss out on important public benefits
A new interactive map can help state and local governments improve older adults’ access to assistance programs.
Community fridges are helping neighbors nourish one another
While fighting food waste and food insecurity, these grassroots mutual-aid projects also aim to bring communities closer together
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Should Vermont’s child care solution be every state’s?
Legislation passed last year may show a path forward as states across the country look to tackle child care crisis.
States recognize 'something's got to give' in providing services to older adults
Helping older adults participate in society and stay engaged with the community as they age is a growing priority for state governments.
HIV infection rates are down everywhere but the South
A new federal grant program looks to improve health equity in Southern states for vulnerable populations like individuals of color and members of the LGBTQ+ community.
How cities are rethinking who responds to 911 calls
Big cities have largely embraced so-called alternative response teams that send trained health care professionals in the place of law enforcement to handle low-risk situations. Now, the approach is moving to smaller jurisdictions.
The results of the biggest study on guaranteed income programs are finally in
For three years, 1,000 people received $1,000 per month—no strings attached. They took better jobs. Some went back to school. Others started opening businesses.
A nonprofit’s abrupt closure puts access to public benefits at risk
The Benefits Data Trust said it would close after a ‘careful review’ of its operations and finances. The closure leaves in question the status of its work with numerous state governments.
13 states with Republican governors opt out of summer food program for kids
They cite opposition to ‘welfare’ and administrative costs in declining to participate in Summer EBT.
The 'silver tsunami' is here. Is government ready?
About 10,000 Americans are turning 65 every day. As the nation’s aging population continues to climb, states and the federal government are working to get plans in place to care for older adults.
Utah Gov. Cox to homeless providers: Produce results, or you could lose funding
Policymakers need to focus more on accountability—while also not forgetting compassion, the governor said.
This Montana school solved its teacher shortage by opening a day care
On-site day cares are being used as a recruitment tool. Turns out, they help more than just the teachers.
