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FOOD AND NUTRITION SERVICES MANUAL

GENERAL PROCEDURES & REQUIREMENTS

FNS 115 ADMINISTRATION OF THE FOOD AND NUTRITION SERVICES PROGRAM

2 Change #1-2021 May 1, 2021 1. An identifiable application is an application containing a legible name and address that has been signed. 2. The person making the application is responsible for cooperating with the county DSS in providing the information necessary for the county DSS to make a determination of eligibility. 3. The county DSS must accept an identifiable application when submitted even if an appointment for an interview is assigned at a future date. 4. The practice of accepting applications only at the interview is not in accordance with federal regulations. 5. Counties must continue their efforts to assure timely and correct certifications by increasing certification staff and providing adequate certification facilities. C. County DSS have direct responsibility for: 1. Determining the eligibility of applicants for the program; 2. Periodically reviewing such eligibility determinations; 3. Authorizing FNS benefits to those certified as eligible; and 4. Providing every applicant and participating household an opportunity for a fair hearing in accordance with the instructions contained herein. D. County DSS are required to: 1. Have the most current version of the DSS-8207, Application for FNS, readily accessible to individuals and groups involved with outreach effort. (Outreach groups include, but are not limited to, senior citizen facilities, community action groups, and the Social Security Administration.); 2. Provide the most current versions of written information (such as pamphlets, brochures, etc.) to persons who request information about the FNS Program but choose not to apply; 3. Make available the most current version of the DSS-8625, Food and Nutrition Services Program Facts Pamphlet; and 4. Display the most current version of the required posters in waiting areas and other areas where the public is served. Required posters include, but are not limited to, the Nutrition Poster, the Non-Discrimination Poster, and the Complaint Poster. To check for the latest version and order posters contact: North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services Division of Social Services Carlotta Dixon MHS, CPM Program Compliance Section Chief SERT ESF 6 Lead Title VI-Civil Rights Coordinator