The Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP) provides critical support for families affected by natural disasters. Unlike regular SNAP, which provides ongoing food assistance, D-SNAP offers temporary aid for families who have lost food, income, or property due to disaster-related disruptions. In response to Hurricanes Helene and Milton, several states are activating D-SNAP programs to help affected residents rebuild and stabilize.
Understanding D-SNAP Eligibility
D-SNAP assistance is tailored for households experiencing severe hardships due to a disaster, and eligibility is limited to those not already receiving regular SNAP benefits. To qualify for D-SNAP, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Residence in a Disaster-Declared Area: D-SNAP is available to residents in counties officially designated as disaster zones due to hurricanes or other events. For example, only residents of counties in Florida, North Carolina, and Georgia affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton are eligible.
- Disaster-Related Losses or Expenses: Applicants must show losses directly tied to the disaster. These may include:
- Food Loss: Spoilage from extended power outages.
- Property Damage: Losses related to home or self-employed business property.
- Income Reduction: Lost wages or business income due to the disaster.
- Disaster Expenses: Costs from emergency repairs, temporary housing, or evacuation expenses.
Apply for D-SNAP
Each state administers its D-SNAP program through designated agencies in partnership with the USDA. The application process generally requires pre-registration, after which applicants can complete an interview to verify eligibility. Here’s how some states have structured their D-SNAP application processes:
D-SNAP in Georgia
D-SNAP benefits in Georgia are provided in four phases. Phases 1 and 2 have passed, but phases 3 and 4 are ongoing for counties affected by Hurricane Helene.
- Phase 3: Runs from November 7–14 (excluding November 10 and 11) for residents in counties including Burke, Columbia, Jefferson, and Richmond.
- Phase 4: Scheduled from November 18–23 for counties such as Appling, Dodge, and Wayne.
Eligible applicants can receive a one-time benefit to assist with food purchases. Applications can be made at assistance centers or by phone, and benefits are provided on an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card.
D-SNAP in Florida
Administered by the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF), Florida’s D-SNAP provides food assistance to families impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
- Eligibility Requirements: Applicants must have lived in a disaster-declared county, experienced disaster-related losses, and meet financial eligibility criteria.
- Application Process: Pre-registration is required, either online or by phone, followed by an interview to confirm eligibility.
- Benefits: Eligible recipients receive an EBT card by mail for food purchases at authorized retailers, covering immediate food needs after the disaster.
Regular SNAP recipients in disaster-declared areas may also qualify for a supplemental benefit up to the maximum allotment for their household size.
D-SNAP in North Carolina
In North Carolina, D-SNAP was activated from October 18–24, 2024, for counties affected by Hurricane Helene.
- Eligibility: Applicants had to show proof of identity, residence in a designated disaster county, and meet certain income and resource limits.
- Application Process: After pre-registering online or by phone, applicants completed interviews by phone or in person.
- Benefits: North Carolina issued D-SNAP on EBT cards, which can be used for food purchases for up to nine months. A family of four, for example, could receive about $975.
North Carolina also offers alternatives for those not eligible for D-SNAP, including regular Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) or WIC benefits for families with young children.
D-SNAP Provides Support
D-SNAP plays a vital role in disaster recovery by providing financial relief for food, allowing families to focus on rebuilding their homes and lives. The benefits issued through an EBT card can be used to buy SNAP-eligible food items at authorized stores. For families facing financial hardship from lost income, property damage, or additional expenses due to the disaster, D-SNAP offers reassurance and relief.
Here is an overview of eligibility and benefits for D-SNAP in disaster-affected states:
| State | D-SNAP Phase | Eligible Counties | Dates | Benefit Access |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Georgia | Phase 3 & Phase 4 | Burke, Columbia, Dodge, Wayne, and others | Nov 7–14 & Nov 18–23 | EBT card after in-person or phone application |
| Florida | Rolling Phases | Counties affected by Hurricanes Helene & Milton | Ongoing | Pre-register online, benefits mailed via EBT |
| North Carolina | Completed | 25 counties in western NC | Oct 18–24 | EBT for up to 9 months, approx. $975 for family of four |
Importance of D-SNAP
D-SNAP’s temporary assistance provides essential food support to families impacted by natural disasters. Beyond food, D-SNAP is a bridge to recovery, offering reassurance and stability to those facing financial uncertainty. For families grappling with housing, income, and overall stability disruptions, D-SNAP represents more than just financial assistance—it is a symbol of hope, allowing them to begin piecing their lives back together.
FAQs
Who qualifies for D-SNAP benefits?
Residents in disaster-declared counties not receiving SNAP.
Can SNAP recipients receive D-SNAP?
Yes, SNAP users may get a D-SNAP supplement in disasters.
What items can be purchased with D-SNAP?
D-SNAP benefits cover SNAP-eligible food items only.
How do I apply for D-SNAP in Florida?
Pre-register online or by phone, then complete an interview.
How long do D-SNAP benefits last in NC?
Benefits are available up to 9 months after issuance.
