The Missouri Department of Social Services has received authorization from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to operate a Disaster Food Stamp Program in 27 counties across the state. The program will provide food assistance to those directly impacted by the recent flooding.
According to MDSS, families receiving food stamp benefits and families typically not qualified for the program may be eligible to receive the Disaster Food Stamp benefit if they have suffered property damage, loss of income, relocation or loss of food due to flooding in late April.
The amount of the Disaster Food Stamp one-time benefit is based on the maximum monthly Food Stamp benefit for the family size, according to MDHSS. After applying, eligible families currently receiving Food Stamp benefits will have food benefits increased to the maximum amount for that month.
The Family Support Division will accept these applications June 12-16. Families already receiving Food Stamp benefits can submit a “Disaster Food Stamp” form found at http://dss.mo.gov/recovery-information.htm. Impacted families not currently on the Food Stamp Program must apply in person at a Family Support Division Resource Center. If a family is eligible, FSD will issue benefits within three days after receiving their application. Applicants need to bring a photo ID or two other documents like utility bills or mail received to verify identity.
Residents impacted by the flood in the following counties may apply for Disaster Food Stamp assistance: Bollinger, Butler, Carter, Douglas, Dunklin, Franklin, Gasconade, Howell, Jasper, Jefferson, Madison, Maries, McDonald, Newton, Oregon, Osage, Ozark, Pemiscot, Phelps, Pulaski, Reynolds, Ripley, Shannon, St. Louis, Stone, Taney and Texas.
For additional information, 1-855-FSD-INFO or http://dss.mo.gov/recovery-information.htm. For information about additional flood recovery resources, visit https://recovery.mo.gov/.
