On Thursday, December 15th, Policy and Advocacy Associate Juan Diaz provided written testimony for the New York City Council Social Welfare Committee’s oversight hearing that examined the timeliness of public benefits processing on light of the ongoing delays at SNAP and HRA job centers citywide.

Juan testified on behalf of CCC’s support of the bills that would help expedite public benefits applications, reduce the time that landlord receive housing subsidies rental payments and strengthen accountability in the check disbursement process. CCC urged the City administration to refrain from making personnel cuts at public benefits agencies citywide and to increase Spanish-speaking personnel. Additionally, CCC advocated for support of the elimination of the 90-day shelter stay rule to qualify for CityFHEPS assistance and expanding eligibility for undocumented families.