Current SNAP customers in storm-affected counties may request replacement of benefits for food losses
CURRENT SNAP RECIPIENTS: To apply for replacement of SNAP benefits, complete the Request for Destroyed Food Replacement form by May 19.
NON-SNAP RECIPIENTS: To apply for SNAP benefits, visit OKDHSLive.org.
OKLAHOMA CITY (May 11, 2023) – Many Oklahomans were affected by the state's severe weather April 19 and 20, including families served by one of more Oklahoma Human Services' programs. For some families served by the agency, this may include the loss of food that was purchased using Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly known as "food stamps") benefits due to a loss of power for an extended period. Current SNAP recipients in Lincoln, Cleveland, Oklahoma, Pottawatomie and McClain counties whose households lost food because of the April 19 and 20 severe storms may request a replacement of benefits up to the monthly amount received for April 2023. Customers must submit their request form by Friday, May 19.
"We know so many of our neighbors experienced devastation and loss during these storms, and want to use all our available resources to step forward and offer help," said Deb Smith, Director of Adult and Family Services. "We encourage families who have been affected to request a replacement of their benefits immediately so they don’t have to worry about additional food costs while they get back on their feet."
Usually, SNAP customers would only have 10 calendar days to request a replacement of SNAP benefits. However, the agency received approval from the United States Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service (USDA-FNS) to allow additional time for customers to report their loss of food. Affected households in the identified counties must submit the Request for Destroyed Food Replacement form by Friday, May 19.
“We understand unfortunate events, such as a disaster, can cause unexpected disruptions in people’s lives,” said Southwest Regional Administrator, Bill Ludwig. “The additional time for SNAP recipient families to report their food losses will, hopefully, provide some peace of mind.”
Recipients who have lost their food benefit card may request a replacement card online at www.connectebt.com, or by contacting Conduent at 1-888-328-6551. Persons needing food assistance may apply for SNAP at OKDHSLive.org via computer or mobile device. Those unable to complete the application online may also call 405-522-5050 to make an application by proxy over the phone. Individuals receiving state benefits, foster care reimbursements, adoption assistance or Child Support on the "Oklahoma Mastercard" debit card who have lost their card due to the storms may request a replacement card by calling 1-888-401-9843 for non-Child Support Mastercards, or 1-888-929-2460 for Child Support Mastercards. If their home has been completely destroyed and they have no way of receiving a replacement card in the mail, recipients may request the replacement card be sent to them at an alternate mailing address.
Anyone needing to apply for benefits may do so online at OKDHSLive.org. For additional services and resources not provided by Oklahoma Human Services, please call 2-1-1 or visit the 2-1-1 Oklahoma website.
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