School clothing vouchers are available

The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, Division of Family Assistance began accepting applications on July 1 for School Clothing Vouchers for eligible children enrolled in West Virginia schools.

Each eligible child will receive a $200 voucher that may be used toward the purchase of appropriate school clothing or piece goods for families who sew clothing for their children. Vouchers must be used at participating stores by October 31.

Families currently receiving WV WORKS cash assistance will automatically get school clothing vouchers for each school age child in the home during mid July 2012.

Children in West Virginia foster care will also automatically receive school clothing vouchers for each school age child enrolled in a West Virginia school.

In addition, certain Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients are eligible for automatic issuance of the school clothing voucher.

Families who received school clothing vouchers in 2011 and currently receive Medicaid or SNAP benefits from DHHR will receive an application in the mail during June 2012.

Other West Virginia families may be eligible for school clothing vouchers. Certain income guidelines must be met for eligibility. For example, the monthly income for a family of four must not exceed $1,921.

Other eligibility guidelines are available from your local DHHR office or online. If interested in applying for the school clothing voucher, request an application by contacting the local DHHR office, calling 1-877-716-1212 or apply online. Verification of income for the month of July must be submitted with the application.

All applications must be received in the local DHHR office by July 31. Applications will not be accepted after this date.