CONTACT
Lee Rettig, Communications and Legislative Services, (402) 471-8287; lee.rettig@nebraska.gov
Grace Johnson, DOL Public Information Officer, (402) 471-4189; Grace.johnson@nebraska.gov
Lincoln – The pilot program that helps those on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) find new and better employment has expanded to Sidney. The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Nebraska Department of Labor (NDOL) launched the SNAP/DOL Re-employment Program in 2016 in Grand Island and had previously expanded to Hastings, Columbus, Norfolk, Scottsbluff and North Platte.
The program also has a new name -- SNAP Next Step.
“The new name more accurately reflects the intent of the collaboration," said Matt Wallen, Director of DHHS' Division of Children and Family Services, which administers the SNAP program in Nebraska. “Our combined purpose is to empower and assist motivated individuals in Sidney and the other communities to improve their skills and help them achieve the ultimate goal of self-sufficient employment based on each individual's needs."
SNAP Next Step assists those who would like to work more hours, gain more income, work in a job more relevant to their education or establish a more family-friendly work schedule. The program helps those enrolled in SNAP find more suitable jobs through job search and resume assistance, interview training, vouchers to buy clothing for interviews and paying for child care and similar services.
More than 150 Nebraskans have enrolled in the program. Nearly 56% of the participants in the phase one pilot community (Grand Island) moved into new jobs. In the phase two communities (Hastings, Columbus and Norfolk), 45% of participants have improved their position. In the most recently rolled out programs, about 15% have already achieved new, higher-paying employment.
To date, the average SNAP Next Step participant who has committed to the program has realized an increase in wages of more than $900 a month, or $11,000 a year.
“DHHS and DOL are working together to help participants overcome challenges that may be preventing them from reaching employment goals," said DOL Commissioner John H. Albin. “Whether it's connecting them to occupational skills training services, helping them upgrade skill sets and work experience or finding on-the-job training, the program is helping people live better lives."
Individuals who live in Adams, Cheyenne, Hall, Lincoln, Madison, Platte or Scotts Bluff counties who currently receive SNAP benefits, are employed and reside in a household that includes at least one work-eligible adult (legal permanent resident or U.S. citizen) are eligible to participate in SNAP Next Step. To enroll, call ACCESSNebraska at (800) 383-4278
Plans are expand SNAP Next Step to Lexington later this year.