questions & answers

Question: I was adopted at the age of 13 from Russia. My adopted American parents were abusive. At the age of 18 I left home. I have been homeless living with friends as I finished my high school diploma. I have not been able to pay anyone for living at their home. I have started community college full time, two of my classes are not college accredited as I was educationally deprive and have to catch up to take Eng. 101 and college math. I spend more time studying than the average student as English is my second language. I work 8 hours a week at a clothing store. I just started caring for a 90 year old lady, more than 20 hours per week, in exchange for a place to study & sleep. DES says I need to work 20 hours a week to get food stamps. Would my caring of the 90 year old count as working even though I do not get paid?

Answer: AZLawHelp Question 21799 Please refer to the link below regarding question of eligibility to receive food stamps. Check “Other Requirements” DES will also consider your immigration status, where you live, who lives with you and your ability to work in deciding if you can get food stamps. Also refer to “Work Requirements” taking care of a disabled person at least 20 hours a week; (http://www.azlawhelp.org/articles_info.cfm?mc=7&sc=41&articleid=55)