Feb_2021_Newsletter

County recognizes Eligibility Technicians who help community access services Eligibility Technician III Lupe Serna sees every day on the job as a chance to make a profound difference in someone’s life. She and her co-workers in Self Sufficiency help families access benefits that can make the difference in someone’s ability to put food on the table or visit the doctor. It’s a struggle Serna knows firsthand. “In 2005, before I started working for the county, my dad was diagnosed with late stage cancer and we turned to DPSS because we didn’t have insurance.” Serna says Self Sufficiency staff processed her dad’s Medi-Cal application the same day, taking the weight of medical insurance off her family’s shoulders. The experience inspired her to become an Eligibility Technician in 2006. “That experience helps me empathize with my customers to this day because I’ve walked in their shoes,” she said.

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Eligibility Technician III Marlene Toscano shares a similar appreciation for the work.

“There is nothing like helping someone who is struggling with life and death issues such as cancer and being the person who helped them access critical medical care. Those are some of the most heartfelt thankyous you can get, and they are very gratifying,” Toscano said.

ToscanoandSerna are twoof 1800 eligibility technicians at DPSS who, along with other staff, helped more than one million customers seeking CalFresh, CalWORKS and Medi-Cal benefits in 2020. The Board of Supervisors recognized the last week in January as Eligibility Technician Recognition Week. While the pandemic put the brakes on the usual in- person celebrations, the department is recognizing ETs in virtual meetings and through personalized ecards from supervisors. “We’re grateful for our eligibility technicians and the impact they have on our communities. They have a heart for people and are helping residents and families find a path forward during these difficult times,” said assistant director of Self Sufficiency, Allison Gonzalez.

Eligibility Technician III Lupe Serna at her office in Jurupa Valley

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