Relief Comes to South Carolina Families Affected by Hurricane Helene with Automatic SNAP Benefits

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Relief for Families Affected by Hurricane Helene

Great news is on the horizon for many families in South Carolina who have been feeling the pinch after Hurricane Helene wreaked havoc last month! The South Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS) announced on Friday that replacement SNAP benefits will soon be available for thousands of low-income families who lost food due to power outages caused by the storm. This is especially crucial in the Midlands, where many residents are still coping with the effects of the disaster.

What’s Happening?

Thanks to a waiver from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), all SNAP recipients in 28 counties impacted by the hurricane will receive automatic replacement benefits. That’s right—no paperwork is needed for those eligible! If you’re a SNAP recipient in one of the affected areas, you don’t have to stress about submitting documentation; the funds will be added directly to your Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card next week, specifically by Tuesday, October 15.

How Does This Work?

So, how do you know if you’re eligible? First off, you must already be a part of the SNAP program, which aims to assist families in need of food assistance. Additionally, residents have to be living in one of the counties where at least 50 percent of the population dealt with power outages lasting over four hours during the hurricane. This declaration was made after many resentful hours of lights out, leaving locals with spoiled groceries and empty fridges.

Areas Benefiting from Replacement SNAP

The counties eligible for this assistance include, but are not limited to, various Midlands areas—a comprehensive list is readily available through DSS. If you live in these eligible counties, just hold tight; replacements representing 55% of your September benefits will appear on your EBT card automatically!

What If You’re Not on SNAP?

If you’re not a SNAP recipient but still faced difficulties due to Helene, there’s still hope! The United Way of the Midlands is stepping up to assist those in need with their Neighbors United Drive. This drive aims to replenish local food pantries and help residents in western counties hardest-hit by the hurricane. The collection ends on Monday, October 14, so there’s still time to contribute!

How Can You Help?

People interested in participating can drop off non-perishable food items, hygiene products, or cleaning supplies at the United Way office located at 1818 Blanding Street in Columbia. They’ll be accepting donations from 9 A.M. to 5 P.M. on Monday. If you’re short on time but eager to help, monetary donations are also welcome!

The Role of Harvest Hope

Additionally, South Carolina’s largest food bank, Harvest Hope, is ready to serve those facing food insecurity in the aftermath of Helene. Their onsite emergency food pantry opens daily from 9 A.M. to 1 P.M., providing crucial support to neighbors in need.

Important Details

If you find yourself in a county not included in the mass SNAP replacements, don’t lose hope! You can still apply for individual assistance. Make sure you submit your application along with proof of your loss by October 26. This could include a letter from your landlord, insurance provider, or utility company to indicate you experienced a prolonged power outage.

In conclusion, the community is banding together to lift each other up after Hurricane Helene. With automatic SNAP replacements for many and community initiatives working to provide help and support, there are many ways people are coming together to improve the situation. If you or someone you know is in need, please don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance! Remember, together we can weather any storm.