In the wake of Hurricane Francine, many families in Louisiana are facing significant challenges, particularly regarding access to food. Thankfully, several food assistance programs have been activated to support affected communities. Two key forms of aid are the Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (DSNAP) and SNAP replacements and supplements.
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DSNAP (Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)
DSNAP provides critical food support to households that are not currently receiving SNAP benefits but have suffered disaster-related income loss or incurred disaster expenses. Following Hurricane Francine, DSNAP has been authorized for eight parishes: Ascension, Assumption, Lafourche, St. Charles, St. James, St. John, St. Mary, and Terrebonne. Residents of these areas can apply for DSNAP between September 25 and October 1, 2024, with specific days assigned by the applicant’s last name to streamline the process. Vulnerable groups, such as the elderly or disabled, can apply in person at select locations across the affected parishes.
Approved DSNAP recipients will receive an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, allowing them to purchase groceries at authorized retailers. Additionally, applications can be completed over the phone, and applicants can designate a representative if they are unable to apply themselves. To qualify, applicants need to provide proof of identity, residency, and any disaster-related expenses they’ve faced.
SNAP Replacements and Supplements
For current SNAP recipients in the disaster zone, automatic SNAP benefits replacements and supplements have been authorized in several parishes. Households in Assumption, Lafourche, St. Mary, and Terrebonne parishes, where power outages affected over 50% of residents, will automatically receive replacements equivalent to 40% of their September SNAP benefits. This aims to offset food losses resulting from the storm. In other parishes, households can apply for replacement benefits if they experience food losses due to extended power outages of at least 24 hours.
Additionally, SNAP supplements, which provide additional benefits to ensure households receive the maximum allowable SNAP amount, have been approved for certain affected areas. These supplements will help cover additional food needs as families work to recover from the disaster.
How to Apply
Residents in eligible parishes can apply for DSNAP by calling the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) or by visiting designated in-person locations. For SNAP replacements, households are encouraged to apply promptly and provide any required documentation to ensure timely processing of benefits.
Both DSNAP and SNAP programs aim to help families regain stability in the aftermath of Hurricane Francine by ensuring they have access to essential food resources.
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For more information on application deadlines, documentation, and program specifics, visit the Louisiana Department of Children & Family Services website.