Residents of certified shelters for battered individuals are eligible for SNAP in the month of application even though they are part of a SNAP household that includes the abuser. (See SNAP Handbook Section 511.94)
The CAO shall not disclose the shelter location except to individuals involved in the administration of SNAP. (See SNAP Handbook Section 511.94)
Access to medical care is especially critical to battered individuals and their children. Without independent access to medical care, individuals may be unable to leave an abusive relationship, access medical and psychiatric help to heal from abuse, work, or obtain employment.
Victims/survivors of domestic violence may benefit from housing assistance offered under the Emergency Shelter Allowance (ESA) program administered by the CAO (See Cash Assistance Handbook Chapter 138) and the Rental Assistance Program operated through the county Homeless Assistance Program (HAP). The programs also administer and provide financial assistance for relocation of domestic violence victims/survivors. When an individual discloses domestic violence, the CAO shall ask the individual if such assistance would be helpful and provide any assistance requested.
Victims/survivors of domestic violence are eligible for childcare benefits under the Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC) on the same basis as other individuals.
ELRC program requirements may also be waived for victims/survivors of domestic violence on a case-by-case basis with the use of the PA 1747. For example, the 20 hour per week requirement for ELRC childcare subsidy can be waived if the individual is unable to comply as a result of domestic violence.
108.126 The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
Provides annual heating assistance to low-income individuals and families and assists them to pay their heating bills through a cash grant. Crisis grants can be provided if households are in immediate danger of being without heat. (See LIHEAP (pa.gov))
108.127 Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
Provides quality medical and dental services to children under the age of 19 who are eligible based on non-financial and financial criteria. The methodology for determining eligibility for CHIP is Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI). (See CHIP (pa.gov))
Updated May 22, 2024, replacing August 9, 2021