Virginia has joined the list of states approved to deliver Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP) benefits. This approval comes in response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, which disrupted the lives and plans of many Virginians.
To address the crisis, the USDA aims to support families facing food insecurity by providing funds for groceries. It is estimated that 22,858 households in 9 counties may qualify for this financial assistance.
Who Qualifies for D-SNAP in Virginia?
While many residents in Virginia may not meet the criteria for regular Food Stamp benefits, they could be eligible for D-SNAP. Eligibility is determined by specific criteria set by the USDA, including disaster-related expenses and income limits.
Recent states that have also received D-SNAP approval include Tennessee, South Carolina, North Carolina, Florida, and Georgia.
Virginia residents in disaster-affected areas can apply for in-person D-SNAP assistance until November 22, 2024.
Eligible Counties for D-SNAP in Virginia
The USDA has identified 9 counties in Virginia where residents can apply for D-SNAP benefits:
| Eligible Counties |
|---|
| Wythe |
| Wise |
| Washington |
| Tazewell |
| Smyth |
| Scott |
| Grayson |
| Carroll |
| Bland |
Residents in these counties who meet the eligibility requirements will receive one month of benefits, equivalent to the maximum amount for a household of their size under the regular SNAP program.
How D-SNAP Benefits Can Be Used
Recipients can use their D-SNAP benefits at authorized grocery stores to purchase essential food items. Additionally, the USDA has approved a hot meals waiver allowing beneficiaries to buy hot prepared meals in eligible grocery stores or participating restaurants.
This waiver includes the following:
- Hot meals: Prepared and ready-to-eat or takeout options.
- Loss compensation: Recipients do not need to report food purchased with Food Stamps that was lost due to power outages.
- Waiver period: The hot meals waiver is effective until December 10, 2024.
Take Action Today
Eligible residents should apply for D-SNAP assistance promptly to avoid missing out on these benefits. With critical waivers and financial relief available, this program is designed to help families recover from the impacts of Hurricane Helene.
FAQs
What is D-SNAP, and who can qualify for it?
D-SNAP provides financial assistance to households in disaster-affected areas to purchase groceries. Eligibility is based on disaster-related expenses and income limits established by the USDA.
How long will the hot meals waiver last?
The hot meals waiver is available until December 10, 2024, allowing recipients to purchase hot-prepared foods.
Which counties in Virginia are eligible for D-SNAP?
The eligible counties are Wythe, Wise, Washington, Tazewell, Smyth, Scott, Grayson, Carroll, and Bland.
