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Increase in Florida food stamp benefits designed to boost economic activity

Posted on March 31, 2009 – news-press.com

More than 1.8 million Floridians will receive an increase in food stamps Wednesday as part of the federal economic stimulus, generating about $380 million in economic activity in the state in the next six months, according to the Florida Center for Fiscal and Economic Policy.

"This federal money will help Floridians put food on their tables and also boost our economy during this deep recession," said John C. Hall, executive director. The Florida Center for Fiscal and Economic Policy is a nonprofit organization providing research on state economic policies affecting low- and moderate-income Floridians and small businesses.

Food stamp benefits will go up by about $20 to $24 per person per month, starting Wednesday. All food stamp households will benefit. The Florida Department of Children and Families reported a food stamp caseload of 1,863,588 in February - 31 percent more than in February 2008.

Other Stimulus Funds Available in Florida

Hall said that other federal funds are beginning to flow into Florida from the stimulus. For example, unemployed Floridians are now receiving an extra $25 per week in unemployment compensation.

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