Hurricane season has hit Florida hard this year, with Hurricanes Helene and Milton causing widespread damage.
In response, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has temporarily expanded the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to include Disaster Relief SNAP benefits, also known as D-SNAP.
These benefits are aimed at helping families in 24 affected counties recover from the recent hurricanes by providing financial support for food. Approximately 407,733 households in Florida are eligible for these benefits.
D-SNAP is meant for households that would not usually qualify for SNAP but have suffered losses due to the disaster. This program helps families buy food while they work to rebuild their lives. Here, we’ll go over eligibility, how to apply, and other important details.
Who Is Eligible for D-SNAP?
D-SNAP benefits are available only to families who do not already receive regular SNAP benefits. For a household of four, the income limit to qualify for D-SNAP is $3,529 per month.
Those who already receive SNAP benefits may apply for extra support if they can prove the disaster impacted their lives, but they must use regular application channels.
How to Apply for D-SNAP in Affected Florida Counties
The USDA has organized the application process based on the specific needs of different counties. Here’s a breakdown of the application dates and methods:
- Columbia, Dixie, Franklin, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Suwannee, Taylor, Wakulla Counties: Phone applications from Oct 28–31; in-person applications from Nov 1–Dec 9.
- Charlotte, Hernando, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas, Sarasota Counties: Phone applications on Nov 4 and Nov 6–8; in-person applications from Nov 9–Dec 3.
- Citrus, Hardee, Highlands, Hillsborough, Lee, Volusia Counties: Phone applications from Nov 12–15; in-person applications from Nov 16–Dec 15.
To apply, residents can either call during the designated dates or attend on-site applications. Make sure to bring proof of identity and any documents that show the impact of the disaster on your household, such as loss of income or property damage.
Benefits Provided by D-SNAP
D-SNAP benefits function similarly to regular SNAP benefits, with a few limitations. They can be used to buy food at approved grocery stores and markets but cannot be used for items like alcohol, tobacco, hot prepared foods, or household supplies.
In some cases, however, these rules may be relaxed during emergencies to allow for hot meal purchases. No exceptions to these rules have been announced yet for this season.
D-SNAP Support in Other States
In addition to Florida, the USDA has allocated D-SNAP benefits to households in Georgia, North Carolina, and Tennessee, where other recent natural disasters have taken a toll.
Each state has its own application process based on the severity and impact of the disaster in its regions.
USDA’s Commitment to Disaster Relief
USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack emphasized the agency’s commitment to helping communities recover by providing food assistance during challenging times.
This expanded support from the USDA, along with state assistance, helps ease the transition for affected families as they rebuild their lives.
The USDA’s temporary expansion of SNAP benefits through D-SNAP helps families affected by the hurricanes in Florida cover essential food costs.
With dedicated application windows and clear eligibility guidelines, the USDA and Florida’s government are working to ensure that people in need receive timely assistance.
For families facing these challenges, this support provides a much-needed financial cushion during the recovery period.
1. Who qualifies for D-SNAP benefits?
D-SNAP benefits are for households that do not usually qualify for SNAP but have been affected by a disaster. Existing SNAP recipients may apply for extra support if impacted.
2. How do I apply for D-SNAP benefits in Florida?
You can apply by phone or in person. Each county has specific dates for phone and on-site applications. Check the dates for your county and have your documents ready.
3. What can I buy with D-SNAP benefits?
You can use D-SNAP benefits to buy food at authorized stores but not hot meals, alcohol, tobacco, or household items, unless there are emergency rule adjustments.
4. Can I apply if I already receive regular SNAP benefits?
Yes, but regular SNAP recipients should apply through standard channels and must provide proof of impact to receive additional assistance.
5. Are other states eligible for D-SNAP benefits after hurricanes?
Yes, Georgia, North Carolina, and Tennessee have also received D-SNAP benefits to assist households affected by recent natural disasters.
