NEWS RELEASE
Thomas Suehs
Executive Commissioner
Date: September 19, 2011
Contact: Stephanie Goodman (512) 424-6951
Special Food Benefits Available to Bastrop Fire Victims
AUSTIN – Bastrop County residents who lost income as a result of the fires may qualify for special food benefits this month.
The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) sought and received a federal waiver to make the disaster assistance available to individuals and families who lost income or incurred extra expenses as a result of the fires.
“In some cases, the widespread fires in Bastrop disrupted jobs as well as lives,” said Texas Health and Human Services Executive Commissioner Tom Suehs. “Families who lost income or had extra expenses this month due to the fires can now get some extra help as they start rebuilding.”
Bastrop County residents may receive SNAP food benefits, formerly called food stamps, for September if they meet the income requirements for the program. A family of four with earnings and cash on hand of up to $3,869 this month may qualify for benefits. HHSC is taking applications for the special benefits at the FEMA help center at 1602 Hill St. in the Bastrop High School 9th Grade Academy. Applications must be received by Sept. 28.
The federal government also granted permission for SNAP recipients to use their benefits to purchase hot ready-to-eat foods in Bastrop County. These items, which are not normally allowed under federal rules, will help families who are unable to return to their homes immediately.
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