FOOD STAMP INCREASE

New federal provisions, slated to go into effect on Oct. 1, increase the minimum amount of food stamp benefits-and Public Advocate Betsy Gotbaum wants to make sure New Yorkers know about it. Gotbaum gathered with other activists on Sept. 29 to raise awareness about the improvements and encourage New Yorkers, especially immigrants with children, to apply. "During these uncertain financial times, food stamps are more needed than ever. Not only do we need to spread the word to immigrant communities that food stamps are available for their children, but we need to work to break down the barriers that keep parents from applying," Gotbaum said. "These new federal regulations should help low-income families put food on their tables, but we still have a lot of work to do fighting hunger in our city and helping immigrant families and their children." The government is expected to direct $7.8 billion over the next 10 years toward food stamp benefits.