East Texas SNAP recipients can apply for replacement benefits after Beryl

SMITH COUNTY, Texas ( KETK ) – After Beryl caused many East Texans to lose food, recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), can now apply for replacement benefits.

According to the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC), Acting Gov. Dan Patrick announced on Thursday that recipients of SNAP and WIC impacted by Beryl can receive aid.

“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. “As we continue our recovery process, it is vital that SNAP and WIC recipients have access to these benefits to continue to feed their families.”

HHSC Deputy Executive Commissioner of Access and Eligibility Services Molly Regan said after millions of homes lost power due to Beryl, families were forced to throw away spoiled food.

“Replacement food benefits will relieve some of the challenges many Texans are currently facing,” Regan said

SNAP and WIC recipients in the following local counties can apply for replacement benefits that will be put on their Lone Star Cards if approved:

Anderson, Angelina, Bowie, Camp, Cass, Cherokee, Franklin, Gregg, Harrison, Henderson, Hopkins, Houston, Marion, Morris, Nacogdoches, Panola, Polk, Rains, Rusk, Sabine, San Augustine, Shelby, Smith, Titus, Trinity, Upshur, Van Zandt, Wood.

People must apply by calling 211 and selecting option 8 before Aug. 8. People can also mail a completed Form H1855 to the Texas Health and Human Services Commission.

Families who use WIC can go to a WIC office to replace food benefits through July 31, a release said.

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