HOUSTON, Texas — In response to the widespread impact of Hurricane Beryl across Texas, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, acting as governor while Gov. Greg Abbott is out of the country, announced that the Texas Health and Human Services Commission has received federal approval to allow Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients to apply for replacement benefits for food lost during the hurricane. This information was detailed in a news release on July 11.
The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) is also offering replacements for food and formula benefits lost due to the hurricane.
“The recent storms have impacted many families across the state. By providing these replacement food benefits, we will offer relief to those who need our help the most,” Patrick said in the release.
Options for Replacement Benefits:
SNAP recipients can apply by dialing 211 and selecting option 8. They can also fill out and mail form H1855 to Texas Health and Human Services Commission, P.O. Box 149027, Austin, TX 78714. To replace food lost or destroyed, SNAP recipients must apply for replacement benefits by Aug. 8. Once approved, the benefits will be placed on their Lone Star Cards within two business days.
The WIC program, administered by HHSC, is replacing food and formula benefits through July 31. Affected families can visit texaswic.org or contact 800-942-3678 for assistance.
A Closer Look:
Over 2.5 million Texans lost power due to Hurricane Beryl, leading many residents and business owners to discard spoiled food, said Molly Regan, HHSC deputy executive commissioner of access and eligibility services.
“This loss was especially painful for families who rely on SNAP benefits,” Regan stated. “Replacement food benefits will relieve some of the challenges many Texans are currently facing.”
The food replacement benefits have been extended to SNAP recipients in 121 counties, including the following Greater Houston-area counties:
– Brazoria County
– Chambers County
– Fort Bend County
– Galveston County
– Harris County
– Liberty County
– Montgomery County
– Waller County
For a full list of the 121 counties, visit the HHSC website.
