Lynn has 2 new food stamp centers

LYNN – Two new food stamp outreach centers are now available in the city as part of the state’s ongoing pledge to expand access to vital support services.The Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) Thursday announced the opening of four full-service satellite offices in Northampton, Athol, Waltham and Somerville, and six food stamp outreach centers in Boston, Lynn, Chelsea and Fall River.The Greater Lynn Senior Center at 8 Silsbee St., and the Lynn Community Health Center at 269 Union St. will house the new centers.Visitors to the support centers will be able to meet one-on-one with experienced DTA workers to learn more about key programs and apply for benefits, including Food Stamps, Transitional Aid to families with dependent children, emergency aid to the elderly, disabled and children, emergency assistance, and employment services.Commissioner Julie Kehoe said the DTA is committed to identifying innovative ways to reach low-income families to facilitate the application process.”Food stamps and other programs offer individuals and families critical support on the road to independence and long term sufficiency,” she said. “By partnering with community health centers, career centers and senior centers, we will be able to reach thousands of residents who may not know they are eligible for benefits.”Residents of Massachusetts can apply for food stamps online through the DTA’s Web site at www.mass.gov/dta or by calling the department’s food stamps benefit hotline at 866-950-3663.