Recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in 22 counties across Oregon, including Douglas County and 21 others, now have additional time to request replacement benefits for food lost during the severe storm that hit the region on November 19 and 20. The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) approved this extension, allowing affected individuals to submit their claims until December 18.
If you purchased food using SNAP benefits and lost it due to the intense winds and rain that caused power outages for more than 25,000 households, you can apply for reimbursement equal to the value of the damaged food. This initiative aims to support families who faced disruptions to essential supplies due to the storm’s impact.
Who is eligible to request SNAP benefit replacements?
The ODHS extended the usual 10-day window to 30 days with federal approval. This adjustment reflects the significant toll the storm took on affected households and ensures that those in need have adequate time to access the support available to them.
How to request benefit replacements
If you need to replace food lost during the storm, follow these steps to file your claim with the ODHS by December 18:
- Estimate the cost of lost food: While receipts are not required, providing an approximate total of the SNAP-purchased food that was damaged or discarded will be helpful.
- Contact the ODHS: Reach out to your local office or use the official channels designated for these requests. Staff members are available to guide you through the process.
- Complete the necessary form: Submitting the official form is essential to initiate your claim. If you have questions or need help, ODHS representatives can assist in filling it out correctly.
Acting promptly is crucial to ensure your request is processed within the extended deadline.
22 counties affected by the storm
The November storm, marked by heavy rain and powerful wind gusts, left thousands of households without power, leading to the spoilage of food stored in refrigerators and freezers. Among the hardest-hit counties were Douglas, Lane, and Marion, along with others experiencing significant service disruptions.
The ODHS’s response is aimed at easing the economic burden on families relying on SNAP benefits, a vital resource for those dealing with food insecurity. By addressing the losses caused by the storm, the program underscores its role in supporting vulnerable communities during emergencies.
Key points about food replacement benefits
The replacement of SNAP benefits is not automatic; each recipient must actively apply for reimbursement. Here are some essential details to keep in mind:
- Extended deadline: The new deadline to submit claims is December 18.
- Documentation requirements: While receipts are not mandatory, providing a detailed estimate of the lost food will help streamline the process.
- Eligibility criteria: If your food was damaged due to power outages or other storm-related conditions, you are eligible to apply.
Why this extension matters
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SNAP plays a critical role in ensuring food security for thousands of families across Oregon. During emergencies like the recent storm, flexibility in program deadlines can significantly impact those needing additional support.
By extending the time frame for benefit replacement requests, the ODHS acknowledges the logistical challenges faced by disaster-affected individuals, ensuring they have a fair opportunity to recover part of their resources. This measure not only provides immediate relief but also strengthens the stability of households recovering from unforeseen events.
If you were affected by the storm in Oregon and lost food purchased with SNAP benefits, take advantage of this extended opportunity to request a replacement. Acting promptly increases your chances of receiving the support you need during this challenging time.
For more information, visit the ODHS website or contact their offices directly. Remember, this assistance is designed to alleviate the hardships caused by the storm and support the food security of the most vulnerable families.