Texans Receive SNAP Replacement Benefits After Devastating Storms

In the aftermath of last week's severe weather and flooding, the Texas government has stepped up to provide much-needed assistance to affected residents. Governor Greg Abbott has announced that the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) has received federal approval to allow Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients to apply for replacement benefits for food lost or destroyed during the storms.

Restoring Food Security for Impacted Texans

Eligibility and Application Process

SNAP recipients who experienced food loss starting from May 16 are eligible to apply for replacement benefits. Once approved, these benefits will be added to their Lone Star Cards within two business days. Eligible individuals in the counties of Austin, Chambers, Colorado, Harris, Liberty, Montgomery, Polk, San Jacinto, Trinity, Walker, and Waller must apply by June 17. To apply, they can dial 211 and select Option 2, or complete Form H1855 (Affidavit for Nonreceipt or Destroyed SNAP Benefits) and mail it or fax it to the HHSC. For those outside the specified counties, SNAP recipients can apply for replacement benefits by visiting a local benefits office within 10 days of discovering their food loss.

Expanding Assistance Beyond SNAP

In addition to SNAP benefits, the HHSC will provide replacements for food and formula lost during the storms through the WIC program until May 31, 2024. Those in need can access these benefits by visiting TexasWIC.org or calling 800-942-3678 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, and selecting Option 3. The WIC program also offers 24/7 breastfeeding support through its lactation hotline at 855-550-6667.

Ensuring Texans Have the Resources They Need

"Due to recent severe weather and flooding that devastated communities across our state, impacted Texans will be able to apply for SNAP replacement benefits for food that was lost or destroyed during these devastating storms," said Governor Abbott. "Eligible Texans can apply for these benefits by dialing 2-1-1. I thank the Texas Health and Human Services Commission for working with our federal partners to ensure Texans have the resources they need to recover and move forward from these storms."The announcement of these replacement benefits comes as a much-needed relief for Texans who have been grappling with the aftermath of the severe weather. By providing access to essential food resources, the state government is demonstrating its commitment to supporting its citizens during times of crisis and ensuring that no one is left behind.