Hurricane Milton caused severe damage in Florida, leaving many families struggling, especially those who rely on food assistance.
To help, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is offering extra benefits to replace food lost due to power outages or storm damage.
This guide explains how you can apply for these extra benefits and what steps to take to ensure your family gets the support they need.
What Are Extra SNAP Benefits?
In response to Hurricane Milton, SNAP is offering extra coupons to help families replace food that was lost because of power outages or storm damage. If you are a current SNAP recipient, you may qualify for these extra benefits to help get your family back on track.
How to Apply for Extra SNAP Benefits
To get these extra benefits, you need to follow a few steps:
- Be a Current SNAP Beneficiary: Only people already receiving SNAP benefits can apply for these additional perks. If you are not enrolled in SNAP, you won’t be eligible for this help.
- Fill Out the Form Before October 19, 2024: Make sure you submit your application before the deadline to avoid delays and get the help you need on time.
- Verify Your Food Loss: You will need to prove that you lost food due to a power outage lasting at least four hours or damage caused by the storm. Without this verification, your request will not be approved.
Special Requirements for Certain Counties
- If you live in Charlotte, Citrus, or Lee counties, which were hit hardest by Hurricane Milton, you don’t need to provide extra documentation through the MyACCESS portal.
- However, residents of Brevard, Clay, Duval, or Seminole counties will need to submit proof of food loss via the MyACCESS portal.
FEMA Assistance: Extra Support for Damaged Homes
In addition to extra SNAP benefits, FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) may offer financial assistance to help with storm-related damages. This can include money for home repairs, temporary housing, or basic living needs.
FEMA’s initial payment to those affected by the storm is typically $770. Depending on your situation, you could receive more help to cover repairs or housing costs if your home is uninhabitable.
How to Apply for FEMA Assistance
FEMA provides multiple ways to apply for help:
- Online: Visit FEMA’s official website to apply quickly and easily.
- By Phone: Call 1-800-621-3362 to apply over the phone with help from a FEMA representative.
- Mobile App: FEMA’s app lets you apply, track your application status, and receive notifications on your smartphone.
Why Acting Quickly Matters
After a disaster like Hurricane Milton, getting the help you need quickly is important for your recovery.
To ensure that you and your family can replace lost food or get financial assistance, make sure to submit your application before the deadline. FEMA and SNAP are both critical sources of help to get your life back on track after the storm.
Who can apply for extra SNAP benefits?
Only people who are currently enrolled in the SNAP program can apply for the extra benefits.
What do I need to do to apply for extra SNAP benefits?
Fill out the form before October 19, 2024, and provide proof of lost food due to the storm or power outages.
What is the deadline to apply for extra SNAP benefits?
You must submit your application by October 19, 2024, to receive the extra support.
How do I apply for FEMA assistance?
You can apply for FEMA help online, by phone, or through the mobile app.
Can I get both SNAP and FEMA assistance?
Yes, you can receive both types of help if you meet the eligibility requirements for each program.
