TYLER, Texas (KETK) – East Texans who lost groceries bought with SNAP benefits could be eligible for replacements from the state as the region recovers from severe storms earlier this month.
SNAP, or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, is a federal program that gives food assistance to roughly 1.6 million Texans.
“For families that have been impacted by the recent storms, these replacement food benefits will help provide some peace of mind,” said HHSC Chief Program and Services Officer Michelle Alletto.
SNAP recipients who are residents of the following counties can apply for replacement benefits:
- Camp
- Cass
- Franklin
- Gregg
- Harrison
- Marion
- Morris
- Ochiltree
- Panola
- Titus
- Upshur
- Wood
Eligible Texans can request replacement food benefits by calling 211 and selecting option eight, or by filling out Form H1855 which is an affidavit for nonreceipt or destroyed SNAP benefits available on the Texas Health and Human Services website. Forms can be mailed to HHSC, P.O. Box 149027, Austin, TX, 78714-9027, or faxed to 1-877-447-2839.
“Many Texas families across our state lost food because of severe weather that ravaged their communities earlier this month,” said Gov. Greg Abbott. “Thanks to the hard work of HHSC, Texans impacted by severe storms and prolonged localized power outages can apply for replacement SNAP benefits so they can have fresh, healthy food to eat.”
SNAP recipients with lost or destroyed food from the June 14-16 storms need to apply for replacement benefits before July 14. Replacement benefits should be on the recipient’s Lone Star Card within two business days.
To find out more information or to fill out Form H1855 visit the Texas Health & Human Services Commission online. For local resources for food and shelter, dial 211 and select option one.
