Disaster SNAP benefits approved for those who live in counties impacted by tornadoes

Governor Andy Beshear has announced that Disaster SNAP benefits have been approved for Kentuckians who live or work in 14 counties impacted by the December tornadic storms.

According to a news release, a Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or D-SNAP waiver, has been approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service. Applications may be submitted beginning January 5 for short-term food help for individuals and families living or working in Caldwell, Christian, Fulton, Graves, Hart, Hickman, Hopkins, Logan, Lyon, Marshall, Muhlenberg, Ohio, Taylor and Warren counties.

Governor Beshear says, “We really appreciate the extra assistance from the federal government to ensure our Kentucky families who have lost so much are able to have access to healthy food at this time. When you’re worried about how to rebuild your home and your life, you shouldn’t have the extra burden of worrying about your next meal.”

Kentuckians residing or working in Barren and Marion County will have an opportunity to apply at a later date. Approved D-SNAP beneficiaries will receive an Electronic Benefits card to access them. The card is used just like a debit card to buy food at most local grocery stores. Because of the unique needs of disaster survivors, D-SNAP uses different standards than normal SNAP. If you would not ordinarily qualify for SNAP, you may qualify for D-SNAP.