WASHINGTON, Nov. 4, 2024 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced a new program to provide food assistance to those affected by Hurricane Helene. The Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP) will offer relief to approximately 357,291 households in 28 counties in South Carolina and one Tribe.
The aftermath of Hurricane Helene has left many families struggling to make ends meet. The devastation caused by the storm has not only affected homes and infrastructure, but it has also taken a toll on the livelihoods of many individuals. The USDA recognizes the need for immediate assistance in these difficult times and has taken swift action to provide relief to those in need.
The D-SNAP program will help families with their grocery expenses, ensuring that they have access to nutritious food during their recovery process. This program is specifically designed for those who may not have been eligible for traditional food assistance programs before the hurricane. It is a temporary program that will provide much-needed relief to those who have been impacted by the storm.
The USDA has estimated that over 350,000 households in South Carolina are eligible for this assistance. This is a significant number, and it shows the magnitude of the impact that Hurricane Helene has had on the state. The USDA is committed to helping as many families as possible during this difficult time.
The D-SNAP program will be available to households in the following counties: Abbeville, Aiken, Allendale, Bamberg, Barnwell, Beaufort, Berkeley, Calhoun, Charleston, Chesterfield, Clarendon, Colleton, Darlington, Dillon, Dorchester, Edgefield, Florence, Georgetown, Hampton, Horry, Jasper, Kershaw, Lancaster, Lee, Lexington, Marion, Marlboro, Orangeburg, and Williamsburg. The Catawba Indian Nation is also included in the eligible areas.
The USDA has also made it clear that the D-SNAP program is not limited to families who have lost their homes or experienced significant damage. Even those who have had their power out for an extended period or have lost income due to the hurricane may be eligible for this assistance. The USDA understands that the impact of a natural disaster goes beyond physical damage and is committed to helping families in any way possible.
The application process for the D-SNAP program is straightforward and has been designed to be as efficient as possible. Families can apply online or in person at their local USDA office. The application process will begin on November 10th and will continue until November 24th. The USDA encourages all eligible households to apply for this assistance as soon as possible to ensure timely relief.
In addition to the D-SNAP program, the USDA has also activated the Disaster Household Distribution Program (DHDP) to provide emergency food assistance to those affected by Hurricane Helene. This program will provide food boxes to households in the affected areas. The USDA is working closely with local organizations and food banks to distribute these boxes and ensure that families have access to nutritious food during this challenging time.
The USDA is committed to helping families recover from the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene. The D-SNAP and DHDP programs are just two of the many initiatives that the USDA has put in place to support those in need. The department is also working closely with state and local agencies to provide additional resources and support to affected communities.
The D-SNAP program is a testament to the USDA’s commitment to ensuring that no one goes hungry during a crisis. The department is working tirelessly to provide relief to those affected by Hurricane Helene and is determined to make a positive impact in the recovery process. The USDA urges all eligible households to apply for this assistance and take advantage of the support available to them.
In conclusion, the USDA’s announcement of the D-SNAP program is a ray of hope for families affected by Hurricane Helene. It is a reminder that in times of crisis, we can come together and support one another. The USDA’s efforts to provide food assistance to those in need are commendable, and we can all play a part in helping our fellow citizens recover from this disaster. Let us stand together and support each other during this difficult time.
