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In addition, the Department of Human Services (DHS) has waived the traditional in-person interview to all those who apply through a MiCAFE site.  This further alleviates the hardships of applying.  You now only have to travel to your area's senior center rather than find a particular DHS Office.

Did you know...
On average, about 19 million people living in 8.2 million households received Food Assistance Program benefits in the United States each month in 2002.  Only about 30% of eligible seniors, however, actually take advantage of its benefits.  MiCAFE works to make the application process as easy as possible, in the hopes of ensuring that those eligible seniors will receive all the benefits that are entitled to.

How it works...
Once the Food Assistance application has been completed, the assistant will print off two copies; one for the applicant's personal records and one which will be mailed to DHS.  Because no interview is needed, the applicant has nothing further to do, except wait to receive the benefits.

Receiving and using Food Assistance benefits is easier than ever before.  Paper food coupons or stamps are no longer used.  Instead, the Food Assistance benefits are put into an account and the senior is given a "bridge card" which can be used at grocery stores just like a credit or debit card.  These funds are automatically put onto the card each month so the senior will have immediate access to their benefits.  If you need more information on how to use your bride card, click here.

Worth the Time!
Many people believe that the benefits are not great enough to offset the burden of applying.  Because MiCAFE makes the application process much easier than before, and because the benefits are (on average) greater than people may think, applying for Food Assistance is truly worth it.  Senior using MiCAFE on average receive $60 per month in Food Assistance benefits.

How to Apply...
As stated, you'll need to call your area's Senior Center to speak directly to a MiCAFE Assistant.  Select your area from the following list to view the Senior Centers nearby.

Click the "Quick County Locator" to find a Senior Center in one of
10 Michigan Counties:

Additional Assistance!
Already taking advantage of Food Assistance Benefits and just need some further information?  Use the following links to answer your questions:

• Food Stamp Calculator - Find out how much your benefits are worth!
• Bridge Card Information - Find out how to use your bridge card, and it's advantages!
• Eat your Way to Good Health - Eating right made easy!