| Releases & Statements
Public Advocate Betsy Gotbaum released a report today indicating that New Yorkers are eligible for an estimated 2.3 billion dollars in state and federal aid to help pay for food, utilities, prescription drugs, and health care. According to Gotbaum, much of the money goes unclaimed because the City agencies do not do a good enough job of making New Yorkers aware of the programs or of dispelling the stigma attached to government aid. “This money is not charity and it's not a hand-out,” Gotbaum said. “It's funding that hard-working New Yorkers deserve to help see them through this tough economy.” The report identifies five programs that offer monetary assistance to New Yorkers:
The Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) administers grants to states to help low-income pregnant women and new mothers whose children are found to be at nutritional risk. Over 525,000 New Yorkers are eligible for an average annual benefit of $431, but fewer than half are actually enrolled.
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) offers low and fixed income households an average of $352 a year to help pay fuel and utility bills, but over 680,000 eligible New Yorkers are not enrolled.
Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC), a program run by the New York State Department of Health, provides prescription drug coverage up to an average $1,199 a year to elderly New Yorkers in need of financial assistance, but over 580,000 eligible seniors are not enrolled.
Over 835,000 New Yorkers who qualify for an average $1,100 a year in food stamps do not claim them.
Over 235,000 New Yorkers who qualify for an average earned income tax credit $1,719 do not claim it.
Standing in front of the Federal Reserve, on Wednesday October 1, 2003 , Gotbaum called on the Bloomberg administration do its part and made the following recommendations:
Increase the availability of application forms
Create public service announcements to destigmatize government programs
Extend office hours at enrollment sites
Provide staff to assist in filling out applications
Launch a coordinated citywide initiative to raise enrollment
“This money is good news for New York City ,” Gotbaum said. “It's time to start spreading that news.” Gotbaum also announced the start of her own initiatives to inform New Yorkers of available programs and to encourage enrollment. She is asking anyone with questions about eligibility or the application process to call her office at 212-669-7250. In addition, she will be visiting communities to raise awareness and address questions and concerns about state and federal aid.
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