'Life-changing' social services program marks two-year anniversary

A state social services program called Healthy Opportunities Pilots (HOP) is celebrating its two-year anniversary. 

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services calls the program a first-of-its-kind “life changer” for thousands of families in North Carolina. HOP offers assistance with food, housing, transportation, and domestic violence services, primarily in rural counties.

According to a news release, more than 20,000 NC Medicaid beneficiaries have been enrolled since the start of the program.

Officials say this has helped reduce state spending on medical costs, as well as the overall level of food insecurity, housing instability, and transportation challenges. 

Preliminary research shows the program has also helped ease the number of emergency department visits.

NC Medicaid is currently authorized to implement HOP through the end of October. The program’s initial success has led the state to request a five-year renewal along with an expansion of services statewide.