Loss of SSI Benefits Subject of Program

Scrambling against a hard-charging deadline, Ventura County officials on Friday will host a one-day program aimed at extending a variety of social services to substance abusers on the brink of losing federal disability benefits.

Dubbed Stand Up, the event will provide free physical exams, immunizations and other services to those who receive disability checks through the Supplemental Security Income program based on long-term addictions to drugs or alcohol.

Under a new law, effective Jan. 1, those payments will be cut off to about 100,000 people nationwide, including about 700 Ventura County residents.

“What we’re trying to do is bring together as many folks as possible in one place, offer them a variety of services and see if we can help them make this transition,” said Steve Kaplan, who heads the county’s alcohol and drug programs.

An estimated 15,500 Ventura County residents receive disability benefits through the SSI program. Of those, nearly 700 received notices earlier this year that their benefits were being eliminated under a law passed by Congress last year.

Those who believe their disabilities are based on something other than drugs or alcohol have been able to appeal the rulings.

Kaplan said he is hopeful that Friday’s program will allow county officials to get a better idea of how many SSI recipients have filed appeals, and how many stand to lose benefits come Jan. 1.

The program is scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center, 800 Hobson Way. Free shuttle service is available throughout the county. For more information call 658-4271.