Michigan Combined Application Project Opportunity

Michigan Combined Application Project (MiCAP) is a USDA Food and Nutrition Service approved demonstration project that allows SSI clients to automatically receive Food Assistance (FAP) benefits. MiCAP is a special initiative for Michiagn Department of Human Services and one of the DHS Director's special initiatives.

The Social Security Administration defines who is served by SSI. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a Federal income supplement program funded by general tax revenues (not Social Security taxes):

• It is designed to help aged, blind, and disabled people, who have little or no income; and
• It provides cash to meet basic needs for food, clothing, and shelter

MiCAP will eliminate administrative barriers to Food Assistance Program participation for this underserved population. Once fully implemented it will bring an additional $47 million to the Michigan economy.

Implementing the program will be easy for new applicants but DHS needs help with the 65,000 people already receiving SSI but not Food Assistance. Information will be mailed to them starting this month but there may be questions raised at the local level. You can play a role by being ready to answer questions or direct people to DHS or the Center for Civil Justice Helpline for information.

I will post more information here as it becomes available.