BOISE — Food stamp use throughout Idaho has reached at an all-time high as the economy continues to squeeze household finances.

In August 2007, officials with the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare said 87,771 Gem State residents received food purchase assistance with their Idaho “Quest” cards. In August this year, that number rose to 105,822 — and more people are applying than ever.

Officials said applications have included families with incomes too high for benefits and those who have never considered assistance before. The cards, similar to those used for debit or credit accounts, can be used for other federal benefits as well.

The spike in applications and award of federal benefits began last November and has continued to rise.

“I think these people are being pinched by high costs, high energy costs and even high housing costs,” Health and Welfare public information officer Tom Shanahan said. “Some don’t qualify because their incomes are still too high, but the costs have gone so high its affecting them and their budgets still.”

In June, at the department’s lead Boise office, staff handled an average of 38 applications for food stamps a day, sometimes peaking to 60. Since the beginning of October, the average has been more than 100 daily applications, and officials said there was no sign of the usual mid-summer decrease in applications, either.

“This year we never saw a drop. It increased every month,” Shanahan said. “We’re seeing a large amount of people who’ve never ever applied for public assistance before.”

Inquiries from individuals about the possibility of help in the future have risen as well, suggesting the increase will likely continue.

“These are families that need services because of loss of employment, or some are self employed and their incomes have dropped,” Shanahan said.

How to get assistance

Applications can be accepted at local Idaho Health and Welfare offices:

• 3402 Franklin Road, Caldwell,   455-7200
• 823 Park Centre Blvd, Nampa,      465-8444
• Bring with you:
• Proof of identity such as a valid Idaho driver’s license.
• Social Security number
• Proof of income and assets: bank accounts or personal property; housing and utility costs; and expenses for medical and child care.