Breaking News: Georgia Extends SNAP Benefits for Thousands After Hurricane Helene – Are You Eligible for Automatic Food Stamp Replacement?

By cheapnailsalonsn On Oct 21, 2024

In response to the severe impact of Hurricane Helene, the Georgia Department of Human Services has extended crucial assistance to SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) recipients. A new waiver has been approved, allowing for automatic replacement of food stamp benefits in several counties hit hardest by the storm, eliminating the need for individual reports of food loss.

SNAP Benefits Automatically Replaced in Eligible Counties

Initially, SNAP beneficiaries were given extra time to report food loss due to power outages caused by Hurricane Helene. However, with this new waiver, residents in certain counties no longer need to file replacement requests. Food stamp benefits will be automatically replaced for those who purchased groceries using SNAP and experienced power outages lasting at least four hours.

This waiver applies to counties with widespread outages, where the storm’s impact caused significant food spoilage. Eligible residents will see their benefits automatically credited, easing the process during this difficult recovery period.

List of Counties Qualifying for Automatic SNAP Replacement

Residents in the following counties qualify for automatic SNAP benefit replacement as of October 2024:

Wilkes
Wilcox
Wheeler
Wayne
Washington
Warren
Ware
Treutlen
Toombs
Tift
Telfair
Tattnall
•Taliaferro
Stephens
Richmond
Rabun
Pierce
Montgomery
McIntosh
McDuffie
Lowndes
Long
Lincoln
Liberty
Laurens
Lanier
Johnson
Jenkins
Jefferson
Jeff Davis
Irwin
Hancock
Glynn
Glascock
Evans
Emanuel
Elbert
Effingham
Echols
Dodge
Columbia
Colquitt
Coffee
Clinch
Chatham
Charlton
Candler
Camden
Burke
Bulloch
Bryan
Brantley
Bleckley
Berrien
Ben Hill
Bacon
Atkinson
Appling

What to Do If Your County Is Not on the List

If your county does not qualify for automatic replacement, you still have until October 25, 2024, to submit a request for SNAP benefit replacement. This extension ensures that families who may have evacuated due to the storm have sufficient time to claim food loss replacements.

Eligible residents in non-waiver counties can file their SNAP replacement request online through the Georgia Department of Human Services SNAP Replacement Form.

The Importance of This SNAP Waiver

This automatic replacement initiative provides a vital safety net for low-income families affected by Hurricane Helene. By streamlining the process, Georgia is ensuring that residents receive timely assistance without the burden of additional paperwork. For those still needing to file claims, the extended deadline offers more time and flexibility.

As Georgia continues its recovery from Hurricane Helene, these measures are a critical step in helping affected families regain stability and access essential resources. Make sure to verify your county’s eligibility and take advantage of this relief if you qualify. Stay tuned for any additional updates on SNAP benefits and disaster relief efforts.