Under the federal stimulus package, monthly food-stamp benefits will increase nearly 14 percent, or about $20-$24 a person per month.

The increase will be added to recipients' monthly allotment starting this month.

"This federal money will help Ohioans put food on their tables and also boost our economy during this deep recession," said Lisa Hamler-Fugitt, executive director of the Ohio Association of Second Harvest Foodbanks, which provides food to pantries and soup kitchens statewide.

About 12 percent of Ohioans now rely on food stamps.

In February, the most recent statistics available, the number of recipients jumped 16 percent from the same time last year, according to the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services.

Food stamps are available to individuals with household incomes up to 130 percent of the federal poverty level. That's $27,560 a year for a family of four.

The program is administered by the state, with benefits paid entirely by the federal government.

State and federal officials note that the increase in benefits will help low-income families and the local economy.

"Food stamps put money right back into the local economy, much like unemployment benefits," said Dennis Evans, spokesman for the Department of Job and Family Services.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates that for every $1 in food assistance, the benefit to the community is $1.84. That's because the money helps the grocery store, food suppliers and their employees.

Ohioans interested in learning more or applying for food stamps can contact their county Department of Job and Family Services or visit www.obb.ohio.gov to find an Ohio Benefit Bank location.

ccandisky@dispatch.com