Polk County Itemizer-Observer

Covering Dallas, Monmouth, Independence, Falls City and surrounding areas since 1868

Seniors get aid with food stamps

MONMOUTH -- There is a safe place for seniors to apply for food stamps in Polk County because of one special volunteer.

Federal Poverty Level

* Single family home: Gross income of $1,670 or less

* Two-person home: Gross income of $2,247 or less

* Three-person home: Gross income of $2,823 or less

MONMOUTH -- There is a safe place for seniors to apply for food stamps in Polk County because of one special volunteer.

Since Aug. 5, 2008, Darrell Gilbert of Monmouth has been helping local seniors apply for food assistance. A senior himself, Gilbert said he has committed his retirement to helping others. This program was right up his alley.

"The program was made by the state just for (seniors)," Gilbert said. "I try to make them feel comfortable and welcome."

Tammy Mazon, the Department of Human Services food stamp resource coordinator, said the department is focusing its attention on helping residents of Polk, Marion and Tillamook counties, especially the senior populations. Polk County's selected application site is at the Monmouth Senior Center because of its central location, Mazon said.

DHS received a grant from Food and Nutrition Services in 2007, which has supported the project and the creation of an online application.

Gilbert said he met Mazon at the center, where he is a member, and discussed the chance to volunteer.

"He's just a sweetheart," Mazon said. "I'm really blessed to have him as a volunteer."

Because the application process can be intimidating, Gilbert tries to put his peer applicants at ease. Everything is confidential, done in a private room, and he helps the applicant through a series of "yes" and "no" questions, Mazon said.

"We make it as seamless as possible and not cumbersome," Mazon said. The site in Monmouth has completed about 15 applications, but she said she would like to help more people.

For seniors to apply, their income must be at or lower than the federal poverty level and have photo identification, Mazon said. The program also accepts senior couples and those with a grandchild, niece or nephew in their household, she said.

"Please come," Mazon said. "We love to help seniors in the community."

Gilbert is at the Monmouth Senior Center every Tuesday from 1 to 3 p.m. to help applicants. For more information or to report a home-bound senior who may need food assistance, call 503-838-5678.