The San Diego County Health and Human Services Agency ACCESS Call Center was recognized by the San Diego Hunger Coalition Thursday with its annual Collaboration of the Year award.
ACCESS, which allows County residents to call in with questions or needs regarding programs or services, was recognized along with 2-1-1 San Diego for their efforts to improve access to CalFresh benefits.
“This is the most innovative partnership,” said Jennifer Tracy, San Diego Hunger Coalition Interim Executive Director. “It’s unique and hasn’t been replicated anywhere else.
“It speaks highly of the partnerships between community groups and the County, and the skills we all bring to the partnership. That’s ideally what a community does.”
ACCESS has been operating since April, 2009 and has more than 60 service representatives answering calls from the public to connect them to vital benefits and programs, including CalFresh. People have the option of applying for benefits in person at one of our 10 Family Resource Centers, applying online, calling ACCESS or calling 2-1-1.
“It’s an honor to be recognized by our local community partners and we are very proud of the collaboration we’ve developed over the years,” said Dale Fleming, HHSA Director of Strategic Planning and Operations. “We are committed to continue working together to improve access to CalFresh benefits.”
Residents can utilize ACCESS by calling 1-866-262-9881. Self-service is available in English and Spanish 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
