ECONOMIC SUPPORT assists in providing the primary needs of low income individuals and families in Douglas County.

PROGRAMS AND SERVICES
Food Shares provide benefits to households that meet income and asset standards to assist in the provision of an adequate and nutritious diet.  This benefit is delivered through an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card.  Certain non-financial criteria must also be met.  The benefit available is based on family size, income, shelter expense, child care expense, support paid out, and, in some instances, medical expenses.  

Medical Assistance provides coverage for medical expenses to eligible persons.  Those who may be eligible include individuals under the age of 19 years, over the age of 65, individuals who have been determined disabled by the Disability Determination Bureau (Social Security), and caretakers of minor children.  The Healthy Start Program and BadgerCare are both included in Wisconsin Medical Assistance Programs.  The Family Planning Waiver provides assistance to women (until age 44) for services relating to reproductive health.  Eligibility for Wisconsin Medical Assistance (Medicaid) is income based.  Assets may be used in determining eligibility.  BadgerCare coverage is not available to those with major medical insurance.  www.BadgerCarePlus.org

General Relief is a county funded program which may be available to temporarily assist residents of Douglas County with the very basic needs.  Time limited.

Judicare provides low or no cost legal services to low income individuals.  Our department provides information to all interested individuals, provides application forms, and forwards the applications to Judicare offices.

Medical Transportation:  Reimbursement of the costs to Medical Assistance recipients to access necessary medical care can be provided.  The service must be a Medical Assistance covered service and be medically necessary to qualify for this reimbursement.  Prior authorization is required.