Benefits CalWIN allows residents to seek food, medical assistance online

January 3, 2011

Benefits CalWIN is the latest online tool to help Solano County residents access food and medical assistance programs.

"We are excited to be able to offer online applications and reporting for struggling individuals and families so they do not have to take time away from work to apply for benefits," said Christiana Smith, Health and Social Services deputy director for employment and eligibility services.

The new website, www.benefitscalwin.org, offers a self-screening tool and an interactive online application for Food Stamps and Medi-Cal programs.  Current Food Stamps recipients can also submit their quarterly reports and annual renewals online. There is no charge for these services.

Food Stamps provide low-income individuals and families a debit card to help buy food. Medi-Cal pays for a variety of medical services for people under 21 or over 65, people with disabilities, pregnant women, and families with children who have limited resources.

Benefits CalWIN is the third wave of technology-supported, self-help services offered by the Health and Social Services Department. In April 2010, the department launched SolanoHelps – www.solanocounty.com/solanohelps. This free, confidential online self-screening tool assists residents in exploring their eligibility for federal, state and local health and social services programs. An automated phone system rolled out in December 2010 provides current Medi-Cal and CalFresh recipients answers to common questions 24 hours per day, 7 days per week.

Referrals for these services are often made by local community-based organizations. To assist these organizations, the department is offering hands-on training sessions on Jan. 11, Jan. 24, and Jan. 25. To sign up for a session, contact Robin Mims at 784-3814.

Posted: Jan. 3, 2011