News : HACAP serves Benton County

In 2023, HACAP servied 1,763 people in 912 Benton County household between October 2022 and September of 2023. Low income households received $874,790 in direct assistance and an estimated market value of $540,000 in food assistance. This is equal to a market value of $1.4 million or an average of $1,650 per household. 

The top needs for the low-income in 2023 were housing-related issues like repairs, rent or mortgage and utilities as well as food assistance. These poverty conditions reflect the most common needs statewide.

HACAP's Hosuing Stabilizaztion and Homeless Housing services extended to 1,289 individuals in 632 households in Fiscal Year 2023 which is a 1% increase from 2022. 631 of these households received $516,262 in utility assistance. Eight of these households received help with weatherization services for a total of $217,327 in property improvements. 12 received emergency furnace repair or replacement support totalling $15,065. 

Two veteran families received $5,809 in rent or utility assistance to obtain or maintain permanent housing in the county. These families were either homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.

The second largest type of assistance in Benton County was food assistance. Over 24,275 meals were provided to 347 families with seniors. Following the pandemic, there was an increase in people returning for meals and socialization opportunities. 

301,400 pounds of food was distributed from the HACAP Food Reservoir an 11% increase over a five year average. Feeding America research indicates a value of $539,506 for this food. 

The organization predicts that because of high inflation people will continue to struggle with basic needs. Food distribution helps to alleviate some of the strain on families allowing money to go for other basic needs like housing, transportation and medical needs. 

Meeting the need for food improves academic success in preschool or school. 

The HACAP Food Reservoir works with schools, churches, civic organizations and non-profits to make food available in various ways to the low-income.

Currently, Head Start provides preschool and child care for 28 children. A nationally recognized whole family program HACAP Head Start consent;y exceeds industry measures for child development. 

HACAP also provides other family services including health services. 145 families received dental and hearing screenings and health insurance navigation.