Food Assistance for Floridians: D-SNAP Benefits Extended to Over 400,000 Affected by Hurricanes

Good news for Floridians: More than 400,000 residents impacted by recent hurricanes can now access food assistance through the federal government.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced the activation of the Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP) for approximately 407,733 households across 24 Florida counties following the devastating effects of Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

Florida experienced both hurricanes within just 12 days at the end of September and into October.

Read: Government Assistance During Hurricane Milton: How to Access Relief Benefits
 

What Is D-SNAP?

In normal circumstances, SNAP benefits, commonly known as food stamps, provide essential support to low- and no-income households for grocery expenses.

However, when a serious natural disaster strikes, D-SNAP comes into play.

This program offers food assistance to those who might not typically qualify for regular SNAP benefits but have been affected by the disaster.

It’s important to note that you cannot apply for D-SNAP if you are already receiving regular SNAP benefits.

“USDA is committed to making sure that families, farmers and communities impacted by recent hurricanes get the support they need, including help with grocery expenses as people grapple with significant disruption to their lives,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “The Biden-Harris Administration, including USDA, will do everything in our power to help you respond, recover and rebuild – no matter how long it takes.”
 

Who Is Eligible for D-SNAP?

To qualify for D-SNAP in Florida, you must live in designated counties and meet specific income requirements.

For example, a household of four must have a monthly income of less than $3,529.

The application process for D-SNAP will take place in three phases across various counties:

1. For Columbia, Dixie, Franklin, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Suwannee, Taylor, and Wakulla counties:

   • Applications will be accepted by phone from October 28 through October 31.
   • Onsite applications will be taken for three days in each county starting November 1 through December 9.

2. For Charlotte, Hernando, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas, and Sarasota counties:

   • Applications will be accepted by phone on November 4 and from November 6 through November 8.
   • Onsite applications will occur for three days in each county starting November 9 through December 3.

3. For Citrus, Hardee, Highlands, Hillsborough, Lee, and Volusia counties:

   • Applications will be accepted by phone from November 12 through November 15.
   • Onsite applications will be available for three days in each county starting November 16 through December 15.

Eligible households can receive one month of benefits, which will equal the maximum monthly amount for a SNAP household of their size.

These benefits can be used to purchase groceries at participating retailers and online stores.

Don't miss: What Stores Let You Use Food Stamps for Online Grocery Orders?
 

Other States Also Receiving D-SNAP Relief

Earlier this month, the USDA approved D-SNAP for several other states affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

Approximately 982,930 households in Georgia, 152,572 households in North Carolina, and 54,692 households in Tennessee are also eligible for D-SNAP relief.

For more information on how to apply for D-SNAP and other assistance programs, check out these resources:

• USDA D-SNAP Overview
• Florida D-SNAP Information
• USDA News Release

This program provides crucial support for families who are struggling to recover from the impacts of recent natural disasters.

If you or someone you know may be eligible, don’t hesitate to apply and take advantage of this vital resource.

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