The Department of Children and Families (DCF) in Florida has announced the approval of the Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP) to assist individuals and families affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. This program is designed for those not already receiving benefits through the regular Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
D-SNAP will be rolled out in phases, starting on Monday, October 28, 2024, with pre-registration required online at MyFLFamilies.com/DSNAP. The initial phase will offer a phone option to expedite service for eligible households. In-person events are planned for those unable to apply by phone, with details to be released soon.
Secretary Shevaun Harris stated, "Our Department has been working diligently to provide support and resources for individuals and families impacted by hurricanes Helene and Milton." She emphasized the importance of offering both telephonic and in-person application processes.
Eligibility criteria for D-SNAP include not receiving regular food assistance, residing in a disaster-declared county during the hurricanes, experiencing disaster-related losses such as home damage or income loss, and meeting financial requirements.
Approved applicants will receive an electronic benefit transfer (EBT) card via mail to purchase food at authorized retailers. Restrictions apply regarding certain non-food items.
Applicants must pre-register online starting Sunday, October 27. Verification is necessary for some application elements. After pre-registration, a phone interview or attendance at an on-site event is required.
Phase one counties include Columbia, Dixie, Franklin, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Suwannee, Taylor, and Wakulla. Phase two covers Charlotte through Sarasota counties from November 3-8; phase three involves Citrus through Volusia counties from November 11-15.
In-person D-SNAP events are planned for those unable to use the phone option. Details about these locations will be announced shortly.