NEWS RELEASE
Albert
Hawkins
Executive Commissioner
Date: Sept. 19, 2008
Contact: Stephanie Goodman (512) 424-6951
State Rolls Out Shorter Application for Disaster Food Stamps
AUSTIN – Texans in counties declared a disaster area due to Hurricane Ike can now apply for disaster food stamps using a shorter, two-page application.
The Texas Health and Human Services Commission has posted the new application in English and Spanish on its website at www.hhsc.state.tx.us.
Low-income families in disaster areas may be eligible for up to two months of emergency food stamp benefits if they meet income and asset requirements. A family of four earning up to $2,915 this month may qualify for assistance. Applicants also will have to answer questions about their bank account balances, household and expenses. People who provide additional documentation may qualify for benefits for a longer period. To apply:
- Visit an HHSC benefits office. You can get a list of offices that are currently open at www.hhsc.state.tx.us or by calling 2-1-1. Offices in the Houston area are operating extended hours and will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
- You can download an application a www.hhsc.state.tx.us, fill it out, and fax it toll-free to 877-447-2839
- People who lack transportation may be able to apply by calling 2-1-1. Select Option 1 for English or Option 2 for Spanish, then select Option 2 for food stamps.
The new application may be used to apply for special disaster assistance instead of the usual 12-page state application. The state will continue to process the longer applications that have already been turned in.
Current food stamp recipients in counties with a federal disaster declaration automatically get replacement benefits. No call or office visit is needed. HHSC has loaded the replacement benefits onto clients’ Lone Star Cards, and all current clients in disaster areas now have access to those additional benefits.
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