The USDA recently issued a notice declaring the Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or D-SNAP, to now enter Phase 3 in designated counties within Georgia for distressed families who were severely impacted by the severe storms. D-SNAP delivers emergency nutrition benefits to eligible, low-income individuals residing in specific disaster-designated areas encountering disruptions such as power outages and home damage or other unexpected emergency-related expenses. From November 7 through 14, 2024, Phase 3 applicants in eligible counties will be eligible to apply for these; specific eligibility and document requirements will apply.
What is D-SNAP?
D-SNAP, provided by the USDA, offers short-term food assistance to families in disaster areas, allowing eligible households to receive one month’s worth of food benefits at the maximum level for their family size. These benefits aim to bridge the gap for those who aren’t regular SNAP participants but need temporary assistance due to disaster-related losses.
Phase 3 Eligible Counties in Georgia
The counties eligible in Phase 3 of Georgia’s D-SNAP program include:
| Phase 3 Dates (Nov 7 – Nov 14, 2024) | Eligible Counties |
|---|---|
| November 7 to November 14 | Burke, Columbia, Glascock, Jefferson, Jenkins, Lincoln, McDuffie, Richmond, Screven, and Washington |
After this phase, a final Phase 4 will run from November 18 to November 23 for additional counties impacted by the disaster.
Eligibility Requirements for D-SNAP
To qualify for D-SNAP, households must:
- Reside or work in an affected county.
- Experience a qualifying loss due to the disaster, such as damage to property, loss of income, or high disaster-related expenses.
- Meet specific income limits adjusted for disaster relief. Unlike regular SNAP, the income limits consider short-term financial loss due to disaster circumstances.
Application Process
For Georgia residents in Phase 3 counties, the application process includes:
- Preparing Documentation: Bring proof of residence, income, and disaster-related losses or expenses.
- Visiting Local Offices: Go to a designated D-SNAP office in your county during the enrollment period (Nov 7-14).
- Applying Online or In-Person: In some areas, online applications may be available. Check local Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS) resources for your county.
How D-SNAP Differs from SNAP
D-SNAP targets those who do not usually qualify for SNAP but need help due to sudden disaster costs. Regular SNAP participants are not eligible for D-SNAP; however, they may receive additional benefits to match the maximum allotment if they are in the affected counties.
FAQs
How much will I receive in D-SNAP benefits?
Households approved for D-SNAP will receive one month of food benefits at the maximum allotment for their household size. This amount varies depending on the number of people in your household.
Can I use D-SNAP benefits to buy hot or prepared foods?
Yes. D-SNAP benefits, like regular SNAP benefits in disaster situations, allow purchases of hot foods and prepared items from authorized retailers in affected counties.
Do I need to reapply if I miss the Phase 3 application period?
If you miss the application period for your county, contact your local DFCS office for guidance. Each phase has set dates and counties, so it’s best to apply during the designated time for your location.
I Work as a Content Writer and I like Writing Articles
