In response to the widespread impact of Hurricane Beryl across Texas, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick—serving as governor while Gov. Greg Abbott is out of the country—announced the Texas Health and Human Services Commission received federal approval to allow Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program recipients to apply for replacement benefits for food lost from the hurricane, according to a July 11 news release.
The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children is also replacing food and formula benefits lost during the hurricane, according to the release.
“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.
The options
SNAP recipients can apply by dialing 211 and selecting Option 8. SNAP receipts can also fill out and mail Form H1855 to Texas Health and Human Services Commission, P.O. Box 149027, Austin, 78714, according to the release.
To replace food lost or destroyed, SNAP recipients must apply for replacement benefits by Aug. 8, according to the release. The replacement benefits will then be placed on their Lone Star Cards within two business days once benefits are approved, according to the release.
The WIC program, administered by the HHSC, is replacing food and formula benefits through July 31, according to the release. Families affected can visit www.texaswic.org or contact 800-942-3678.
A closer look
Over 2.5 million Texans lost power due to Hurricane Beryl, leaving many residents and business owners having 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 said in the release. “Replacement food benefits will relieve some of the challenges many Texans are currently facing.”
The food replacement benefits were 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
