Oh, white Christmas! This time of year is not only a time to celebrate, but also a time when many families face economic challenges that put them on the ropes.
For those who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), they can breathe a sigh of relief this Christmas, because they make sure there is always food on the table.
In Florida, this program ensures that thousands of households can enjoy a balanced diet during the holidays (and throughout the year). If you are a SNAP recipient or think you might qualify for this payment, here is everything you need to know about the December payments and how to take advantage of them.
How do SNAP payments work?
In Florida, the Department of Children and Families (DCF) oversees the monthly distribution of SNAP benefits, although this is a program administered by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). However, each state has its own distribution system. In the case of Florida, payments are made throughout the month (and are based on the digits of the beneficiary’s case number).
How are these benefits delivered?
Well, they are delivered through EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) cards. This means that they work like regular debit cards, which can only be used in establishments authorized by the program itself. This ensures that the money is distributed in an organized and equitable manner throughout the month and this money is not spent elsewhere or on other needs, so it goes directly to what it is intended for: food.
What can you buy with these benefits and what can you NOT buy?
SNAP is designed so that you can buy healthy foods, including fruits, fresh vegetables, meat and fish, dairy products, breads, cereals, staple foods, and seeds to grow at home.
Keep in mind that there are foods and products that cannot be bought with this benefit, such as alcoholic beverages, tobacco, vitamins and supplements, hot foods prepared at a point of sale (in other words, fast food), or non-food items such as cosmetics or cleaning products.
As we have said, SNAP is very strict when it comes to making payments, so they make sure that the money from the program is invested in the right way.
What are the key dates for Christmas week?
SNAP is sent from the 1st to the 28th of each month, starting today, we are going to leave you the outline of who is still waiting to receive their payment.
- December 23: Case numbers ending in 79-81.
- December 24: Case numbers ending in 82-85.
- December 25: Case numbers ending in 86-88.
- December 26: Case numbers ending in 89-92.
- December 27: Case numbers ending in 93-95.
- December 28: Case numbers ending in 96-99.
Requirements to participate in SNAP in Florida
To participate in this program you can access by submitting an online application by mail or by visiting a local program office. The process is quite simple, you simply have to provide documentation that includes proof of identity for you (and your family), proof of income and residency in the state of California, and information about all household members.
Depending on these requirements, they will choose whether or not you participate in the program and will deposit monthly (in case you qualify) the benefits on your EBT card, ready to use at the permitted locations.
What do I do if I lose my EBT card?
First of all, you should know that you can use the BBT card in any state outside of Florida, as long as it is in an establishment that accepts these payments and is authorized by the program.
If you lose your card, immediately contact the Department of Children and Families to report the loss and request a replacement.
On the other hand, if you want to know what balance you have left on the card, you have to call the number that appears on your EBT card.
With all this information you can now make sure you take full advantage of the benefits of the SNAP program during these holidays, and remember that this program is designed for those who need it most to have a hot meal to eat.