Creating a Common Application through the FY23 Budget

The MetroWest Food Collaborative recently joined the Common Apps Coalition, which is led by Massachusetts Law Reform Institute and the National Association of Social Workers - MA Chapter. The Common Apps Coalition is advocating for the creation of a true Common Application - or a “no wrong door” policy - for public benefits in the Commonwealth. This will allow low-income Massachusetts families the option to apply for more available needs-based benefits and reduce duplication of information and verifications. This campaign builds upon advocacy done by the SNAP Gap Coalition, which succeeded in an important step towards closing the “SNAP Gap” by allowing low-income residents applying for healthcare to be able to seamlessly use their MassHealth or Medicare Savings Program applications for SNAP benefits. A true common application is the final step to help our state's most vulnerable residents meet all of their basic needs, including fuel assistance, childcare, WIC, state veterans’ services, and more. In order to cross the finish line, we are urging members of the House and Senate to include outside section language in the FY23 budget to ensure permanent change. Other states have done this, and we believe Massachusetts has the smarts and technology skills to get this done.

FY23 Budget Fact Sheet Common App Campaign

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FY23 Senate Budget Amendment #625 - Common App Fact Sheet

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