Department making changes in nutrition program due to cuts

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) – The Oklahoma Department of Human Services says budget cuts have led to changes in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, which was formerly known as food stamps.

DHS said Wednesday that clients will now receive replacement electronic benefits cards from the vendor, Xerox, rather than at a local DHS office.

Adult and Family Services Director Jim Struby said $100 million in cuts has resulted in eliminating more than 1,200 employees in recent years and that changes had to be made to how services are provided.

Clients needing to replace a lost card will now go online at www.connectebt.com or by calling 1-(888)-328-6551.

Cards for child care subsidy, first-time SNAP applicants, and households eligible for emergency SNAP benefits will still be issued in the DHS office.