Our Advancing Strategies to Align Programs (ASAP) project helps state-level advocates increase enrollment in work support programs, including Medicaid and SNAP, through more integrated systems. There is strong evidence that work supports improve people’s immediate and long-term health as well as their educational and economic outcomes. Research also shows that receiving the full package of benefits—not just one program—is especially effective.
Safety net programs like SNAP, Medicaid, and child care subsidies support work and lift families out of poverty. However, many people don’t receive all the benefits for which they’re eligible. That’s why CLASP works with states, federal agencies, advocates, community colleges, and others to streamline safety net programs—making it easier for states to administer programs and for individuals and families to apply for, and keep, all the benefits for which they’re eligible. When low-income families access and keep a comprehensive benefits package, they’re less hungry, healthier, and better prepared to advance economically.