January 14, 2022 3:30 a.m.

Oregon has increased the income eligibility limit for food and child care assistance up to 200 percent of the federal poverty level.

A release from the Oregon Department of Human Services said the income limit is now $2,147 a month for an individual or $3,660 for a family of three.

The change took affect at the start of the year, and approximately 18,000 new households are expected to be eligible to enroll in SNAP. Approximately $25 million in additional food benefits will be issued to Oregonians annually.

The release said Oregonians can apply for medical, food, cash and child care assistance in one place online at: https://one.oregon.gov/  Phone calls and in-person visits to apply can take place as well. Due to COVID-19, residents are encouraged to call ahead before they visit a local office.