The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced an extension of the Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP) for certain areas in New Mexico.
This program aims to assist low-income residents affected by the recent floods and wildfires in San Juan and Rio Arriba counties on June 17, 2024. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the D-SNAP extension, eligibility criteria, and application details.
D-SNAP Extension in New Mexico
Overview
D-SNAP provides temporary food assistance to households affected by natural disasters. It is designed to help residents who may not typically qualify for regular SNAP benefits but are facing financial challenges due to disaster-related expenses.
The USDA, under Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, has emphasized the importance of this relief, noting that over 25,000 additional households might qualify.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for D-SNAP, residents must meet specific criteria:
- Disaster Income Limits: Applicants must fall within the specified disaster income limits, which consider the household’s income and resources during the disaster period.
- Disaster-Related Expenses: Eligible households must have incurred qualifying disaster-related expenses. These can include costs for repairs, temporary shelter, evacuation, food loss, or medical expenses not covered by insurance.
- Location: Only residents of the designated disaster areas in San Juan and Rio Arriba counties are eligible.
Even those who do not usually qualify for regular SNAP benefits may be eligible for D-SNAP due to the unique circumstances created by the disaster.
Application Details
The application period for D-SNAP in New Mexico runs from August 12, 2024, to August 18, 2024. However, applications will not be accepted on August 18, 2024, so it’s crucial for interested households to apply within the specified window.
Applicants can expect to receive benefits equivalent to the maximum monthly allotment for a SNAP household of their size. These benefits will be provided for one month and can be used to purchase food both in-store and online.
Contact Information
Residents seeking more information can contact New Mexico’s assistance line at 2-1-1 or 855-309-3766. Further details are also available on the official website: New Mexico Human Services Department.
The D-SNAP extension provides critical support to residents of San Juan and Rio Arriba counties in New Mexico, offering financial assistance to those affected by recent natural disasters.
Eligible households are encouraged to apply during the designated period to receive much-needed relief.
FAQs
What is D-SNAP?
D-SNAP is the Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program that provides temporary food assistance to eligible households affected by natural disasters.
Who is eligible for D-SNAP in New Mexico?
Residents of San Juan and Rio Arriba counties who meet disaster income limits and have disaster-related expenses.
When is the application period for D-SNAP?
The application period is from August 12, 2024, to August 18, 2024.
How can I apply for D-SNAP?
You can apply by contacting the assistance line at 2-1-1 or 855-309-3766 or by visiting the official New Mexico Human Services Department website.
What type of assistance does D-SNAP provide?
Eligible households receive one month of benefits equal to the maximum SNAP allotment for their household size.
