Mesa County Innovates Service to the Community
Mesa County Department of Human Services (MCDHS) was recognized following successful efforts made to reduce the amount of time it takes to receive support through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by the Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS) and the Colorado Department of Health Care Policy and Finance (HCPF). CDHS applauded MCDHS for increasing application processing timeliness by 40 percent in just seven months, and HCPF recognized Mesa County as a top performer among large counties.
MCDHS Economic Assistance Director Melissa Schierland has implemented changes that have increased sustainable practices of the Economic Assistance division including:
- Staffing increases and restructuring
- Development of a call center to improve customer service
- Building a client support team to help streamline service delivery
- Focus on staff skill building in both Medicaid and SNAP eligibility
For those we serve, these changes mean:
- Nutritional needs are met sooner
- Improved responsiveness to case inquiries
- Reduced wait times
- Enhanced overall customer experience
SNAP applications have increased by 17 percent since December 2020. Schierland and her team continue to find ways to better service those seeking assistance. The State’s recognition reflects appreciation for our hard work and recognition of how far MCDHS has come in a short amount of time, all while continuing to handle an increase in food assistance applications each month.
“Our staff are the heart and soul of what we are able to accomplish on the Economic Assistance team,” says Schierland. “Our team has worked tirelessly to ensure individuals and families have what they need to receive the benefits they’re eligible for. We would not be here without our amazing employees.”
Clients may call the Economic Assistance Call Center at (970) 256-2434 with questions about their benefits as well as to report changes for their case during our open hours, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Fridays. Please call (970) 248-8480 for information about other MCDHS programs and services.
