Apply for Food Stamps in 22 Storm-Affected Counties

Oregon SNAP Recipients Have Until December 18 to Request Replacement Benefits for Storm-Damaged Food

Oregon residents in 22 counties, including Douglas County, who lost food purchased with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits during the severe storm of November 19-20, can now request replacement benefits. The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) has extended the deadline for claims to December 18, providing additional time for those impacted by power outages and storm damage to apply.

Here’s what you need to know about eligibility, how to apply, and which counties are affected by this extension:

Eligibility for Replacement Benefits

To qualify for replacement benefits, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Food Loss Due to the Storm: You must have lost food purchased with SNAP benefits as a result of the storm, including spoilage due to power outages.
• Storm-Related Conditions: The food loss must be linked to disruptions caused by the storm’s intense winds and rain.

This extended deadline allows families to recover from the storm’s impact and alleviate food insecurity in the aftermath of the event.

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How to Apply for Replacement Benefits

To request replacement benefits, follow these steps before the December 18 deadline:

1. Estimate the Loss: While receipts are not required, provide an estimate of the value of the food lost due to the storm.
2. Contact ODHS: Reach out to your local ODHS office or use designated hotlines for assistance and guidance.
3. Complete the Claim Form: Submit the official form to process your claim. ODHS staff can help you through the application process.

Affected Counties

The severe storm affected over 25,000 households, causing widespread power outages and food spoilage. The counties most impacted by the storm, where replacement benefits are available, include:

• Douglas
• Lane
• Marion
• And 19 additional counties across Oregon.

Thousands of families in these counties need support, making this replacement benefit a vital resource for recovery.

Why the Extended Deadline Matters

The extension of the claim deadline is a critical step in assisting affected households, particularly as many families work to recover from the storm’s aftermath. The additional time ensures that those impacted by the storm’s disruptions have a fair chance to request benefits and regain food security.

This initiative aims to:

• Provide immediate relief to households impacted by food loss.
• Strengthen food security for vulnerable communities.
• Ease the financial burden caused by the storm’s damage.

Next Steps

If you were affected by the November storm, be sure to act before the December 18 deadline to apply for replacement SNAP benefits. For more information, visit the ODHS website or contact your local office to begin the process.

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FAQs

Who is eligible for SNAP replacement benefits?
Anyone who lost food purchased with SNAP benefits due to the storm.

What is the deadline for applying for replacement benefits?
The deadline to apply is December 18, 2024.

Do I need receipts to file a claim?
Receipts are not required, but an estimate of the value of the lost food is helpful.

Which counties are eligible for replacement benefits?
22 counties, including Douglas, Lane, and Marion, are eligible for this program.

How can I apply for replacement benefits?
Contact ODHS and submit the official claim form to apply for replacement benefits.