Leveraging Federal Nutrition Resources for Disaster Recovery

New SNAP Waivers

On Sept. 3, 2023, FNS approved the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) request to issue mass replacements to impacted households. This waiver approval allows households to receive replacement of benefits as stated in the approval due to power outages and flooding as a result of Hurricane Idalia that began on Aug. 29, 2023. The waiver applies the following 14 counties: Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Hernando, Jefferson, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Pasco, Suwannee, Taylor and Wakulla.

On Sept. 2, 2023, FNS approved the Florida DCF request to waive the statutory definition of “food” under Section 3(k)(1) of the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008, as amended and accompanying regulations at 7 CFR 271.2. The waiver applies to the following 23 counties: Alachua, Baker, Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Hernando, Hillsborough, Jefferson, Lafayette, Leon, Levy, Madison, Marion, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Sumter, Suwannee, Taylor, Union and Wakilla. This waiver approval allows SNAP households to purchase hot foods with SNAP benefits through Oct. 1, 2023. Retailers may need as much as 24-36 hours to make changes that will allow for sale of hot foods. 

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In preparation for Hurricane Idalia, the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service issued a series of SNAP and child nutrition waivers for Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina.

SNAP Waivers

Florida

On Aug. 29, 2023, FNS approved Florida’s amended request for early issuance of September 2023 benefits to SNAP households that receive their benefits between Sept. 1, 2023, and Sept. 14, 2023, to add Brevard, Orange and Osceola counties. The initial waiver was also approved on Aug. 29, 2023 and applied to SNAP benefits to all households in 46 counties. The amendment increases the total to 49 counties approved for early issuance.

Child Nutrition Waivers

Florida

On Aug. 30, 2023, FNS approved Florida’s request for a waiver allowing Florida Child Care Food Program (CCFP) institutions and sponsoring organizations, which are part of the federal Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), to serve meals in a non-congregate setting, adjust the time of meal service, allow parent and guardian meal pick up, waive meal pattern requirements and educational or enrichment activity requirements for the at-risk component. Additionally, the requirement for sponsoring organizations to make payments of program funds to sponsored facilities and day care homes within five working days of the receipt of monthly reimbursement is waived. Under the approval, the state agency may also waive requirement for meal service observation during a monitoring visit. The waiver is effective through Sept. 30, 2023.

On Aug. 29, 2023, FNS approved Florida’s request for waivers allowing program operators of the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) and Seamless Summer Option (SSO) t0 serve meals in a non-congregate setting, allow parent pick-up, adjust the time of meal service, and allow service of meals at school sites due to the unanticipated closures. Additionally, the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and School Breakfast Program (SBP) may serve meals in a non-congregate setting, allow parent pick-up, adjust the time of meal service, and are not required to use offer versus serve. These waivers are in effect through Sept. 30, 2023.

Georgia

On Aug. 29, 2023, FNS approved Georgia’s request to allow program operators of the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) and Seamless Summer Option (SSO) to serve meals in a non-congregate setting, allow parent pick-up, adjust the time of meal service and allow service of meals at school sites due to the unanticipated closures. Additionally, the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and School Breakfast Program (SBP) may serve meals in a non-congregate setting, allow parent pick-up, adjust the time of meal service, and are not required to use offer versus serve.

South Carolina

On Aug. 30, 2023, FNS approved South Carolina’s request to allow program operators of the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) and Seamless Summer Option (SSO) to serve meals in a non-congregate setting, allow parent pick-up, adjust the time of meal service, and allow service of meals at school sites due to the unanticipated closures. Additionally, the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and School Breakfast Program (SBP) may serve meals in a non-congregate setting, allow parent pick-up, adjust the time of meal service, and are not required to use offer versus serve.

For more information, visit the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service’s (USDA FNS) Hurricane Idalia Response page.

On Aug. 17, 2023, FNS approved the Hawaii Department of Human Services (HDHS) request to extend certification periods and waive periodic reporting requirements for ongoing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) households in Hawaii for up to six (6) months due to the impact of wildfires that began on Aug. 8, 2023.

On Aug. 16, 2023, FNS approved Hawaii HDHS request to waive the statutory definition of “food” under Section 3(k)(1) of the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008, as amended and accompanying regulations at 7 CFR 271.2. The waiver applies to all five counties in Hawaii (Hawaii, Honolulu, Kalawao, Kauai and Maui). This waiver approval allows SNAP households to purchase hot foods with SNAP benefits through Sept. 14, 2023, in order to increase access to food after power outages as a result of wildfires that began Aug. 8, 2023. Retailers may need as much as 24-36 hours to make changes that will allow for the sale of hot foods.

On Aug. 11, 2023, FNS approved the Hawaii HDHS request to waive the 10-day reporting requirement for food purchased with SNAP benefits that was lost as a result of power outages due to wildfires that began on Aug. 8, 2023. This waiver applies to following seven zip codes in Maui County and Hawaii County: 96743, 96753, 96755, 96761, 96768, 96788 and 96790. The waiver is in effect through Sept. 15, 2023.

For the latest updates on Disaster SNAP waivers approved in the wake of wildfires in Hawai’i, visit the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service Hawai’i Disaster Nutrition Assistance page.

In January 2023, USDA extended the time to request replacement benefit for SNAP households in 7 Alabama counties hard hit by weather-related power outages.

On June 24, 2021, USDA approved an extension of time for Alabama SNAP households in eight counties hard hit by Tropical Storm Claudette to seek replacement benefits.

In the wake of last fall’s Hurricane Zeta, on January 4, USDA approved Alabama’s request to operate D-SNAP in 7 counties.

A new online portal allows Alabama households hard but by Hurricane Sally to preregister for federal D-SNAP benefits.

On September 30, USDA authorized Alabama to operate D-SNAP in three counties (Baldwin, Escambia, and Mobile) that were hard hit by Hurricane Sally. D-SNAP will be conducted in two counties from October 5 through October 9, and in Mobile County for five week days starting on October 13.

On September 30, USDA announced the approval of D-SNAP for disaster areas affected by Hurricane Sally.

On September 24, USDA approved Alabama’s request to issue automatic mass partial SNAP replacement benefits to SNAP households in three counties hard hit by Hurricane Sally.

On October 4, 2022, USDA permitted SNAP households in counties hit hard by Typhoon Merbok to use SNAP benefits to purchase hot prepared foods.

On September 23, 2022, President Biden approved a disaster declaration for areas of Alaska hard hit by severe storms, flooding and landslides.

On August 22, 2022, USDA authorized Alaska to use TEFAP commodities for disaster food distribution in an area experienvcing distress and low food stock.

On April 24, 2023, USDA approved operation of Disaster SNAP (D-SNAP) in 3 Arkansas counties to assist households not already participating in SNAP to get temporary benefits.

On April 21, 2023, USDA extended time for requesting replacement benefits for SNAP households in parts of Arkansas affected by tornado-related power outages as well as authorized temporary Disaster SNAP for households not already enrolled in SNAP.

On April 8, 2023, FNS approved a request from Arkansas for child nutrition program waivers for Wynne School District due to the impact of a tornado.

On April 7, 2023, FNS approved a request from Arkansas to use TEFAP foods to operate a disaster household distribution in two counties hit hard by storms.

On April 7, 2023, USDA approved the redemption of SNAP benefits for purchase of hot prepared foods and the use of TEFAP foods for household disaster distribution in parts of Arkansas hit hard by tornado related damages.

On April 6, 2023, USDA extended the time to seek replacement benefits for SNAP households in three Arkansas counties hit hard by tornado-related power outages.

On July 24, 2023, FNS approved the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) request to waive the 10-day reporting requirement for food purchased with SNAP benefits that was lost as a result of power outages due to extreme heat that began on July 18, 2023. The waiver request applies to residents of Lake County and is in effect through Aug. 17, 2023.

FNS approved the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) request to waive the 10-day reporting requirement for food purchased with SNAP benefits that was lost as a result of power outages due to severe wildfires that began on July 15, 2023. The waiver request applies to residents of Riverside County and is in effect through Aug. 14, 2023.

On June 12, 2023, USDA approved Disaster SNAP for Butte County, California, which had been hard hit by severe storms.

In the wake of severe storms earlier this year, on June 2, 2023, USDA approved use of SNAP benefits for purchase of hot prepared foods in seven California counties.

On May 10, 2023, in the wake of severe storms, USDA approved California’s request to add Disaster SNAP (D-SNAP) in 3 more counties and to extend case processing times in another county.

On May 8, 2023, USDA approved use of SNAP benefits for purchase of hot prepared foods in 15 California counties hard hit by severe storms and power outages.

On April 19, 2023, USDA added two more California counties to those disaster areas in which SNAP households may use their benefits to purchase hot prepared foods on a temporary basis.

Disaster SNAP benefits will be available in 7 California counties hard hit by storms beginning April 17 pursuant to the waiver USDA approved on April 12.

On April 11, 2023, USDA approved use of SNAP benefits for purchase of hot prepared foods for SNAP households in 23 California counties hit hard by storm-related power outages.

In March 30, 2023, USDA approved issuance of automatic mass replace t benefits firvSNAP households in 6 zip code areas of TrunutybCoubty, California that were hard hit by storm-related power outages.

On March 28, 2023, USDA approved California’s request to issue automatic mass replacement benefits to SNAP households in 120 zip code areas affected by storm-related power outages and flooding.

By a series of waivers issued between March 8 and March 21, 2023, USDA extended the time to seek replacement benefits for SNAP households in certain California counties hard hit by storm-related power outages.

On February 28, 2023, USDA approved California’s request to expand Disaster SNAP to a 14th county hard hit by severe storms (Amador County).

On February 6, 2023, USDA approved California expanding Disaster SNAP (D-SNAP) to zip code areas in a total of 13 counties hard hit by severe storms, floods, landslides, and mudslides.

In the wake of flooding and power outages, on January 23, 2023, USDA approved a temporary waiver to allow SNAP households in 26 California counties to use their benefits to purchase hot prepared foods.

On January 20, USDA approved California’s request to issue mass replacements benefits to SNAP households in 34 counties impacted by an earthquake.

On January 17, 2023, in the wake of power outages, USDA extended the time for California SNAP households to seek replacement benefits.

On January 9, 2023, USDA extended the time to seek replacement benefits for SNAP households in Humboldt and Santa Cruz counties in California after those areas were impacted by storms.

On December 27, 2022, USDA extended the time for SNAP households in Humboldt County, California to seek replacement benefits after an earthquake hit the area.

On December 22, 2022, USDA approved temporary flexibilities for school meal service in Humboldt County, California, after the area was impacted by an earthquake.

On September 26, 2022, USDA approved California’s request for certain flexibility in school meals operations in Mader and Modoc counties that were hit hard by the Fork and Barnes wildfires.

In the wake of wildfires in mid-September 2022, USDA allowed school districts in 4 California counties (El Dirado, Placer, Riverside, and Siskiyou) temporary flexibility on school meal service.

In the wake of wildfires in California, on September 14, 2022, USDA extended time for SNAP households in El Dorado and Placer Counties to seek replacement benefits and relaxed school meal serving rules in Siskiyou County.

On August 3, 2022, USDA extended the time for SNAP households in Siskiyou County, CA to seek replacement benefits in the wake of the McKinney Fire.

On July 27, 2022, USDA extended the time for SNAP households in Mariposa County, CA to seek replacement benefits given the impact of the Oak Fire.

On July 25, 2022, California extended the time for SNAP households in Yuba County to seek replacement benefits. Yuba County was hard hit by the Winding Fire.

On July 12 USDA extended the time to seek replacement benefits for SNAP households in 2 California counties impacted by the Electra Fire (Amador and Calaveras).

In the wake of the Rices Fire, on July 6 USDA extended the time for SNAP households in Nevada County, CA to seek replacement benefits.

In the wake of the California Thunder Fire, on July 1, 2022, USDA extended the time for Kern County CalFresh households to seek replacement benefits.

In the wake of wildfires and power outages, on June 21, 2022, USDA extended the time for SNAP households in San Bernardino County, CA to seek replacement benefits.

On June 6, 2022, in the wake of power outages and wildfires, USDA extended the time for SNAP households in Riverside County CA to seek replacement benefits.

In the wake of storm-related power outages, January 13, 2022, USDA extended the time for SNAP households in Trinity County, CA to seek replacement benefits.

In the wake of late December 2021 winter storms and power outages, on January 7, 2022, USDA approved California’s requests for SNAP households in certain affected areas to receive automatic mass replacement benefits or have more time to seek them.

On November 4, 2021, USDA authorized California to issue automatic mass replacement benefits to SNAP households in certain zip code areas impacted by severe winds and public safety power shutoffs.

On October 22, 2021, USDA approved California’s request to issue mass replacement benefits to SNAP households in certain zip codes in 14 counties impacted by extreme wind and public safety power shutoffs.

On October 8, 2021, USDA approved California’s request to operate Disaster SNAP (D-SNAP) in six counties impacted by ongoing wildfires (Lassen, Nevada, Placer, Plumas, Tehama and Trinity).

On September 29, 2021, in the wake of wildfires and power outages, approved extra time for SNAP households in Shasta County to seek replacement benefits; it also allowed SNAP households in 9 counties to purchase hot prepared foods with SNAP benefits.

On September 20, 2021, USDA approved extra time to seek replacement benefits for SNAP households in 83 zip code areas of 27 California counties impacted by power outages.

On September 8, 2021, USDA approved use of SNAP benefits to purchase hot prepared foods in 13 California counties hard hit by wildfires.

On September 5 and 3, 2021, respectively, USDA approved extensions of time for SNAP households in Kern County and San Bernadino County to seek replacement benefits in the wake of recent wildfires.

On August 30, 2021, in the wake of the Westward Fire and power outages, USDA extended the time for SNAP households in Riverside County, California to seek replacement benefits.

On August 24, 2021, USDA extended the time for SNAP households in California’s El Dorado county to seek replacement benefits as a result of the Caldor Fire.

On August 23, 2021, as a result of the McFarland and Monument fires in California, USDA extended the time for SNAP households in Trinity and Shasta counties to seek replacement benefits.

In the wake of the Glen Fire, on August 16, 2021, USDA approved an extension of time for households in Yuba County, California to seek replacement benefits.

In the wake of wildfires and power outages, USDA has extended the time for California SNAP households in Siskiyou, Nevada and Placer counties to seek replacement benefits.

On July 29, 2021, in the wake of the Tamarack Fire and power outages, USDA extended the time for SNAP households in Mono County to seek replacement SNAP benefits and June emergency allotments issued in July.

On July 26, 2021, USDA extended the time for SNAP households in Lassen County to seek replacement benefits in the wake of power outages caused by wildfire.

On July 22, 2021, USDA extended time for SNAP households in Alpine County to seek replacement benefits, given the impact of recent power outages.

On July 22, 2021 USDA extended the time for Alpine County, California SNAP households to seek replacement benefits for food list as a result of recent power outages.

In the wake of the River Fire, on July 21, 2021 USDA extended the time for SNAP households in Mariposa County, California to seek replacement benefits.

On July 15, 2021, in the wake of the Broiler Fire, USDA granted an extension of time for SNAP households in Mendocino County, California to seek replacement benefits.

On July 7, 2021, USDA approved an extension of time for SNAP households in Siskiyou County to seek replacement benefits for food lost as a result of a recent wildfire.

On April 6, USDA approved an extension through April 30 the time for California SNAP households impacted by Mono Wind power outages to seek replacement of SNAP benefits.

On January 18, USDA approved California’s request for an extension of time for SNAP households impacted the Mono Wind event to seek SNAP replacement benefits.

On November 25, in the wake of wildfires, USDA approved California’s request for an extension of time for SNAP households in Mono County to seek replacement benefits.

On November 16, USDA approved California’s request to issue automatic mass SNAP replacement benefits hard hit by October 14 power outages.

On October 26, USDA approved a temporary waiver to allow CalFresh (SNAP) benefits to purchase hot prepared foods in 25 counties impacted by wildfires.

Preregistration for Disaster CalFresh (D-Calfresh) opens October 7. Outreach materials are available in English and Spanish.

On October 6, USDA approved California’s request to issue automatic mass partial replacement benefits to CalFresh households in 16 zip codes in 10 counties hard hit by wildfires and power outage; USDA also extended to October 26, 2020, the time for CalFresh households to seek replacement benefits due to food loss.

On September 29, USDA approved California’s request to operate Disaster CalFresh in nine counties impacted by wildfires and, in light of COVID-19, to do so using several “novel procedures” to supplement onsite application intake with remote methods. Specifically, prior to the application period, California will operate a pre-registration by phone, and then during the application period, the state will conduct interviews by telephone using a “call out” model. This is distinguished from the “call in” model used in states (Florida and Louisiana) that have online D-SNAP preregistration systems. Application periods for Disaster CalFresh will run weekdays from October 14 through 22 in Lake, Monterey, Napa, San Mateo, Santa Cruz, Solano, Sonoma, and Yolo counties and weekdays from October 21 through October 29 in Butte County.

On September 29 USDA approved D-SNAP for residents in California counties hard hit by wildfires.

On September 24 USDA approved California’s request to allow SNAP participants in six counties impacted by wildfires to purchase hot prepared foods with their SNAP benefits.

By a series of waivers issued between March 8 and March 21, 2023, USDA extended the time to seek replacement benefits for SNAP households in certain California counties hard hit by storm-related power outages.

In the wake of the Rices Fire, on July 6 USDA extended the time for SNAP households in Nevada County, CA to seek replacement benefits.

On Sept. 21 2020, USDA approved California’s request to issue mass SNAP benefit replacements to households in 83 zip codes impacted by wildfires and power outages.

On Sept. 3, 2020, FNS approved California’s request to issue SNAP mass replacements to impacted households. This waiver approval allows households to receive replacement of 50 percent of August benefits for 23 zip codes in 12 counties as a result of wildfires and power outages.

Replacing SNAP (CalFresh) benefits and Hot Prepared Food waivers (Wildfires)

Automatic mass SNAP benefit replacements (Tropical Storm Isiais)

On Sept. 3, 2023, FNS approved the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) request to issue mass replacements to impacted households. This waiver approval allows households to receive replacement of benefits as stated in the approval due to power outages and flooding as a result of Hurricane Idalia that began on Aug. 29, 2023. The waiver applies the following 14 counties: Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Hernando, Jefferson, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Pasco, Suwannee, Taylor and Wakulla.

On Sept. 2, 2023, FNS approved the Florida DCF request to waive the statutory definition of “food” under Section 3(k)(1) of the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008, as amended and accompanying regulations at 7 CFR 271.2. The waiver applies to the following 23 counties: Alachua, Baker, Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Hernando, Hillsborough, Jefferson, Lafayette, Leon, Levy, Madison, Marion, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Sumter, Suwannee, Taylor, Union and Wakilla. This waiver approval allows SNAP households to purchase hot foods with SNAP benefits through Oct. 1, 2023. Retailers may need as much as 24-36 hours to make changes that will allow for sale of hot foods.

On Aug. 29, 2023, FNS approved the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) amended request for early issuance of September 2023 benefits to SNAP households that receive their benefits between Sept. 1, 2023, and Sept. 14, 2023, to add Brevard, Orange and Osceola counties. The initial waiver was also approved on Aug. 29, 2023 and applied to SNAP benefits to all households in 46 counties: Alachua, Baker, Bay, Bradford, Calhoun, Charlotte, Citrus, Clay, Collier, Columbia, Desoto, Dixie, Duval, Flagler, Franklin, Gadsden, Gilchrist, Gulf, Hamilton, Hardee, Hernando, Hillsborough, Jefferson, Lafayette, Lake, Lee, Leon, Levy, Liberty, Madison, Manatee, Marion, Nassau, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns, Sumter, Suwannee, Taylor, Union, Volusia and Wakulla. The amendment increases the total to 49 counties approved for early issuance. The early issuance allows households to prepare for the storm prior to making landfall or immediately after landfall.

In the wake of Hurricane Ian, on October 26, 2022, USDA extended the time for Florida households to use SNAP benefits to purchase hot prepared foods.

On Oct. 7, 2022, USDA approved Florida’s request to allow Florida Adult Care Food Program sponsors that are part of the federal CACFP may waive monitoring requirements; record retention requirements; and the 60-day limit for submitting claims for reimbursement.

On Oct.7, 2022, USDA approved Florida’s request to waive monitoring requirements; record retention requirements; and the 60-day limit for submitting claims for reimbursement for CACFP sponsors.

On October 7, 2022, USDA announced approval of Disaster SNAP (D-SNAP) for 19 Florida counties hard hit by Hurricane Ian.  The state has opened pre-registration for D-SNAP and is phasing in a hybrid application process that it estimates could serve more than 740,000 Florida households not already participating in regular SNAP. USDA also has approved supplemental benefits for SNAP households in those areas.

On Oct. 6, 2022, USDA approved Florida’s request to waive the requirement that, during unanticipated school closures, SFSP and SSO meals must be served at non-school sites.

On Oct. 5, 2022, USDA approved Florida’s request to extend the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) election deadline for Collier County Public Schools until Oct. 14, 2022 as a result of Hurricane Ian.

On Oct. 4, 2022, USDA approved Florida’s request to operate Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) open sites at alternative site locations as proposed during unanticipated school closures.

SNAP households in 19 Florida counties hard hit by Hurricane Ian are receiving automatic replacement benefits and SNAP households statewide are allowed to use SNAP benefits to purchase hot prepared food pursuant to waivers USDA approved on October 1 and 2, 2022. In other recent action USDA granted flexibility for operations in child nutrition program operations.

On Sept. 30, 2022, USDA approved Florida’s request to allow Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) operators to serve meals in a non-congregate setting.

On Sept. 29, 2022, USDA approved Florida’s request to allow schools to offer meals through the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) or NSLP Seamless Summer Option (SSO)  in a non-congregate setting, adjust time for meal service, allow parent pickup, and serve meals at school sites.

On September 28, 2022, in the wake of Hurricane Ian, the Department of Homeland Security issued a reminder that accessing disaster services will not lead to immigration enforcement action.

On September 27, 2022, USDA approved early issuance of October SNAP benefits to households scheduled to receive them between October 1 and October 14 in order to allow them to prepare for Hurricane Ian prior to or immediately after landfall.

On September 24, 2022, in anticipation of a potential hurricane, President Biden approved an emergency declaration for Florida for Tropical Storm Ian.

On September 29, 2020 USDA approved Florida’s request to issue automatic mass partial SNAP replacement benefits to SNAP households in two counties (Escambia and Santa Rosa) that were hit hard by Hurricane Sally.

SNAP households in 7 Georgia counties hit hard by recent storms will have extra time to seek replacement benefits pursuant to a USDA waiver approved on January 24, 2023

On July 11, 2023, FNS approved the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration, Division of Family Resources (DFR) request to issue mass replacements to impacted households. This waiver approval allows households to receive replacement of benefits as stated in the approval due to power outages as a result of storms that occurred June 29-30, 2023. The waiver request applies to Vigo County.

On April 6, 2023, USDA approved automatic mass replacement of benefits and extra time to seek replacement benefits for SNAP households in areas of Indiana hit hard by tornadoes.

In the wake of severe storms last August, on January 5, USDA approved Iowa’s request to expand D-SNAP to Clinton county and be operational from January 25 through January 29.

USDA has approved D-SNAP for 10 additional counties hit hard by the recent Derecho and the application process will roll there in waves during the weeks of September 15 and 22. One county had already gotten D-SNAP approval in August.

D-SNAP (Derecho)

Replacing SNAP benefits and Hot Prepared Food waivers (Derecho)

On April 5, 2023, USDA extended the time for Kentucky SNAP households to seek replacement benefits after the state was hit hard by storm-related power outages.

On March 10, 2023, USDA extended the time for Kentucky SNAP households to seek replacement benefits in the wake of storm-related power outages.

On September 28, 2022, USDA extended through November 1 the waiver allowing SNAP Kentucky households in numerous counties to purchase hot prepared food items with SNAP benefits. The waiver is aimed “to increase access to food after the flooding, mudslides, landslides, and power outages that began on July 26, 2022.”

On August 30 and 31, 2922, USDA approved Kentucky’s requests to extend the time for Disaster SNAP, use of SNAP benefits for purchase of hot prepared foods, and requests for replacement SNAP benefits for households in areas hard hit by flooding and power outages.

On August 19, 2022, USDA authorized Kentucky to operate Disaster SNAP and issue automatic SNAP replacement benefits for households in Kentucky counties hard hit by flooding.

On August 8, 2022, USDA approved extensions of time to seek replacement benefits and to use SNAP benefits for hot food purchases for SNAP households in more Kentucky counties hard hit by recent storms and flooding.

On August 3, 2022, USDA gave SNAP households in Kentucky counties hard hit by recent flooding flexibility to use benefits to purchase hot prepared food and extended the time for them to seek replacement benefits

On June 17, 2021, USDA approved Kentucky’s request to expand D-SNAP operations from 9 to 31 counties hard hit by late winter heavy rains, flooding, landslides and mudslides.

On June 11, 2021, USDA approved Kentucky’s request to extend through June 16 Disaster SNAP (D-SNAP) for residents in 9 counties hard hit by storms in February and March: Breathitt, Clay, Estill, Floyd, Johnson, Lee, Magoffin, Martin, and Powell.

On January 26, USDA authorized Louisiana to operate Disaster SNAP (D-SNAP) in 6 parishes hard hit by Hurricane Zeta last fall. The application period opens on February 1.

On January 14, USDA approved Louisiana’s request to expand D-SNAP to more parishes had hit by Hurricane Delta in fall 2020.

In the wake of Hurricane Zeta, Louisiana and the City of New Orleans are conducting damage assessments and prepare to request authority to operate Disaster SNAP (D-SNAP) for which residents can preregister now.

On November 2, USDA approved Louisiana’s request to issue automatic mass SNAP replacement benefits to SNAP participants hard hit by Hurricane Zeta.

On October 22, USDA approved Louisiana’s request to operate Disaster SNAP for residents in five parishes hard hit by Hurricane Delta.

On October 21, FNS approved Louisiana’s request to issue automatic mass SNAP benefit replacements to SNAP households hard hit by Hurricane Delta.

On October 11, USDA approved Louisiana’s amended request to operate a Disaster Household Distribution (DHD) program in parishes hard hit by Hurricane Delta.

On September 30, in the wake of Hurricane Laura, USDA extended the hot prepared foods waiver through October 31 for Louisiana SNAP households.

On September 11 USDA approved another 2 parishes for Disaster SNAP (D-DNAP) aid to households hard hit by Hurricane Laura, bringing to 18 the total number of parishes in which D-SNAP will be offered.

USDA approves automatic mass replacement benefits for SNAP households hard hit by Laura and D-SNAP for others

Schedule and instructions for Hurricane Laura households to apply for D-SNAP in Louisiana.

In the wake of Hurricane Laura USDA has authorize Louisiana to operate Disaster SNAP (D-SNAP) “for 16 parishes in two phases – one beginning this week and the other next week. Operations will be entirely virtual due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Louisiana will share information about D-SNAP application dates and locations through local media.”

Louisiana SNAP benefits for September were issued early and also can be used to purchase hot prepared foods as Hurricane Laura recovery efforts continue. Louisiana is preparing a request for authority to get Disaster SNAP (D-SNAP) benefits to residents not already participating in SNAP and is already accepting pre registrations for D-SNAP.

FNS approved the Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) request to waive the 10-day reporting requirement for food purchased with SNAP benefits that was lost because of power outages due to severe storms that began July 9, 2023, through July 16, 2023. This waiver applies to residents in Barnstable, Berkshire, Bristol, Dukes, Essex, Franklin, Hampshire, Hampden, Middlesex, Norfolk, Nantucket, Plymouth, Suffolk and Worcester counties and will be in effect through Aug. 15, 2023. 

On February 16, 2023, USDA extended the time to apply for SNAP replacement benefits for residents of a Worcester, MA apartment complex impacted by outages after a water pipe burst.

On December 7, 2022, USDA extended the time to seek replacement SNAP benefits for residents of a Worcester, Massachusetts apartment complex hit by fire and power outages.

On November 1, 2021, USDA extended the time for Massachusetts SNAP households to seek replacement benefits for food lost due to damaging winds and power outages.

Automatic mass SNAP benefit replacements (Tropical Storm Isiais)

In the wake of heavy storms, on July 9, 2021, USDA approved an extension of time for Wayne County, Michigan SNAP households to seek replacement benefits.

Households in 6 Mississippi counties hit hard by tornadoes can apply for Disaster SNAP benefits pursuant to a waiver USDA approved on April 12, 2023.

On April 6, 2023, USDA approved issuance of mass replacement benefits for SNAP households in areas of Mississippi suffering tornado-related damage.

On April 6, 2023, USDA granted Mississippi’s request to issue automatic native mass replacement benefits to SNAP households in four counties that experienced tornado-related power outages.

In the wake of storm-related damage in late March 2023, USDA has extended the time to seek replacement benefits for SNAP households in select areas of Mississippi and temporarily allowed them to use SNAP benefits for hot prepared food purchases.

On November 5, USDA  approved Mississippi’s request to extend the time for SNAP households in 13 counties hit hard by Hurricane Zeta to seek replacement SNAP benefits.

On April 11, 2023, USDA extended time for SNAP participants in Bollinger County, Missouri to seek replacement benefits in the wake of a tornado.

On August 18, 2018 USDA extended the time for SNAP households in Montgomery County, Missouri to seek replacement benefits given recent flooding.

On July 29, 2022, USDA extended time for Missouri SNAP households in 3 areas hard hit by floods and power outages to seek replacement benefits.

On June 13, USDA announced approval of Disaster SNAP for residents of 5 New Mexico counties hit hard by recent wildfires.

On May 14, 2022, in the wake of a wildfire, USDA authorized New Mexico SNAP households to use their benefits to purchase hot prepared foods.

On January 10, 2023, USDA approved issuance of mass replacements for SNAP households in six zip code areas of Erie County, New York that had power outages due to Winter Storm Elliott.

On January 6, 2023, USDA extended the time for SNAP households in Erie County, New York to seek replacement benefits after the area was hit hard by Winter Storm Elliott.

On December 14, 2022, USDA approved North Carolina’s request to issue mass replacement benefits to SNAP households in Moore County in the wake of power outages caused by vandalism of an electrical substation.

On December 14, 2022, USDA extended the time for SNAP households in Moore County, North Carolina to seek replacement benefits given  outages after vandalism to an electrical substation.

On September 29, 2021, USDA approved North Carolina’s request to operate Disaster SNAP in 3 counties that had flooding and power outages caused by Tropical Storm Fred.

On August 31, 2021, USDA extended the time for SNAP households in 7 NC counties hard hit by power outages to seek replacement benefits.

On August 31, 2020, USDA granted NC authority to issue automatic mass SNAP replacement benefits to SNAP households in 11 North Carolina counties hard hit by Tropical Storm Isiais.

On June 23, 2023, USDA approved mass issuance of replacement benefits to SNAP households in 12 Oklahoma counties hard hit by storm-related power outages. 

On May 11, 2023, USDA approved Oklahoma’s request to modify and extend their Disaster SNAP  (D-SNAP) operation in response to the impact of tornadoes.

On May 3, 2023, USDA authorized Disaster SNAP (D-SNAP) for two Oklahoma counties that were impacted by severe storms.

On March 10, 2023, USDA extended the time to seek replacement benefits for SNAP households in 5 Oklahoma counties hit by storm-related power outages.

On May 23, 2022, in the wake of severe storms,  USDA extended the time for SNAP households in 6 Oklahoma counties to seek replacement benefits.

On January 18, 2023, USDA extended the time to seek replacement benefits for SNAP households in 26 Oregon counties hard hit by recent storms.

On October 7, 2022, USDA extended and expanded to 12 Oregon counties extra time for SNAP households hard hit by wildfires to seek replacement benefits.

On October 4, 2023, USDA granted extra time for SNAP households in nine Oregon counties impacted by wildfires to seek replacement benefits.

On February 21 USDA approved an extension of time for SNAP households in nine counties hard hit by winter storms and power outages to request replacement benefits.

On November 23, 2020, USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service approved SNAP and D-SNAP recipients in 23 Oregon counties, including Douglas, to purchase hot or prepared foods from authorized SNAP retailers until the end of the year.

On October 17, 2020, pre-registration for D-SNAP in Oregon opened and will remain open through October 22, 2020. In light of COVID-19, the applications will be completed online from October 23 through October 28.

On October 16, USDA approved Oregon’s request to operate Disaster SNAP for residents in 8 counties impacted by wildfires.

On October 7, USDA approved an extension of times for Oregon SNAP households impacted by wildfires to request replacement SNAP benefits.

On September 29, USDA authorized Oregon to operate on Disaster Household Distributions (DHD) program in four counties hard hit by wildfires and widespread power outages. The initiative is aimed at helping supplement food banks’ supplies.

On September 23, USDA approved Oregon’s request to allow SNAP participants impacted by wildfires an extension of time to request SNAP replacement benefits.

On October 21, 2022, USDA extended the time for Pennsylvania SNAP households affected by a partial building collapse to seek replacement benefits.

On Sept. 29, 2022, USDA approved South Carolina’s request to allow school food authorities (SFAs) impacted by Hurricane Ian to serve meals in a non-congregate setting.

On December 21, 2022, in the wake of a blizzard in South Dakota, USDA approved a request from the Rosebud Sioux Tribe, which administers the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR), to use USDA foods for a disaster household food box distribution to more than 600 individuals.

In the wake of a blizzard that hit parts of South Dakota in December 2022, disaster household distribution food packages were provided to 1,600 households on the Pine Ridge Reservation. USDA approved the request for this use of USDA foods from the Oglala Sioux Tribe, which administers the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR).

On August, 27, 2021, USDA approved a waiver to allow SNAP households in 5 Tennessee counties hard hit by recent storms to use their benefits for purchase of hot prepared foods.

During the week of August 16, residents in three Tennessee counties hit hard by spring 2021 severe weather can apply for Disaster SNAP (D-SNAP).

On June 22, 2023, USDA extended the time for SNAP households to seek replacement benefits in 12 Texas counties that experienced power outages after severe storms. 

On June 22, 2023, USDA approved automatic mass replacement benefits for SNAP households in 3 Louisiana counties that suffered storm-related power outages.  In prior action, USDA has extended the time to request SNAP replacement benefits for Louisiana SNAP households in 21 counties. 

On February 22, 2023, USDA approved a request to waive the 10-day reporting requirement for food purchased using SNAP benefits as a result of power outages due to severe storms and tornadoes in 12 Texas counties.

On February 6, 2023, USDA extended the time to seek replacement SNAP benefits to households in 67 Texas counties impacted by storm-related power outages.

On February 24, USDA authorized Texas to issue mass replacement benefits onto EBT cards for SNAP households in 66 counties impacted by winter storms and power outages. See also announcement from Texas Governor Abbott.

In the wake of mid-February storms, USDA approved a statewide waiver to allow hot prepared food purchases with SNAP through March 31, 2021. See also announcement from Texas Governor Abbott.

In the wake of Hurricane Laura, USDA has granted Texas authority to use USDA foods from TEFAP for a disaster food distribution in Orange County through September 22 “or until such time as D-SNAP is implemented.”

Automatic mass SNAP benefit replacements (Hurricane Hannah)

On Aug. 8, 2023, FNS approved Vermont Department of Children and Families (DCF) extension request to waive the 10-day reporting requirement for food purchased with SNAP benefits that was lost as a result of power outages and flooding due to heavy rainstorms that began on July 9, 2023. The waiver request applies to all residents in the State of Vermont and is in effect through Aug. 31, 2023. 

On July 19, 2023, FNS approved Vermont Department for Children and Families (DCF) request to waive the statutory definition of “food” under Section 3(k)(1) of the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008, as amended and accompanying regulations at 7 CFR 271.2. The waiver applies to all counties in the State of Vermont. This waiver approval allows SNAP households to purchase hot foods with SNAP benefits through Aug. 18, 2023, in order to increase access to food after power outages as a result of severe storms that began July 9, 2023. Retailers may need as much as 24-36 hours to make changes that will allow for sale of hot foods.

On July 17, 2023, FNS approved the Vermont’s request to operate a disaster household distribution in the areas of Johnson, Ludlow, Hardwick, Barre/Berlin/Montpelier, Northfield and Chester. This request is in response to food assistance needs resulting from a major disaster declaration due to severe storms, flooding, and mudslides causing extensive damage to homes. The disaster household distribution food package will be provided to approximately 8,000 individuals beginning on July 20, 2023. The boxes will use USDA Foods and will be distributed at The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) distribution sites and mobile distribution in areas of Johnson, Ludlow, Hardwick, Barre/Berlin/Montpelier, Northfield and Chester. The disaster household package contains canned vegetables, meat, rice, and fruit cups.

On July 14, 2023, FNS approved the Vermont DCF request to waive the 10-day reporting requirement for food purchased with SNAP benefits that was lost as a result of power outages due to severe storms and flooding that began on July 9, 2023. The waiver request applies to all residents in the State of Vermont and is in effect through Aug. 9, 2023.

In the wake of Hurricane Ian, on October 26, 2022, USDA extended the time for Florida households to use SNAP benefits to purchase hot prepared foods.

On Oct. 7, 2022, USDA approved Florida’s request to allow Florida Adult Care Food Program sponsors that are part of the federal CACFP may waive monitoring requirements; record retention requirements; and the 60-day limit for submitting claims for reimbursement.

On Oct. 7, 2022, USDA approved Florida’s request to waive monitoring requirements; record retention requirements; and the 60-day limit for submitting claims for reimbursement for CACFP sponsors.

On October 7, 2022, USDA announced approval of Disaster SNAP (D-SNAP) for 19 Florida counties hard hit by Hurricane Ian.  The state has opened pre-registration for D-SNAP and is phasing in a hybrid application process that it estimates could serve more than 740,000 Florida households not already participating in regular SNAP. USDA also has approved supplemental benefits for SNAP households in those areas.

On Oct. 6, 2022, USDA approved Florida’s request to waive the requirement that, during unanticipated school closures, SFSP and SSO meals must be served at non-school sites.

On Oct. 5, 2022, USDA approved Florida’s request to extend the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) election deadline for Collier County Public Schools until Oct. 14, 2022 as a result of Hurricane Ian.

On Oct. 4, 2022, USDA approved Florida’s request to operate Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) open sites at alternative site locations as proposed during unanticipated school closures.

On October 3, 2022, USDA approved Virginia’s request to allow Virginia Beach City Schools to serve meals in a non-congregate setting due to flooding caused by Hurricane Ian.

On Sept. 30, 2022, USDA approved Florida’s request to allow Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) operators to serve meals in a non-congregate setting.

On Sept. 29, 2022, USDA approved Florida’s request to allow schools to offer meals through the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) or NSLP Seamless Summer Option (SSO)  in a non-congregate setting, adjust time for meal service, allow parent pickup, and serve meals at school sites.

On Sept. 29, 2022, USDA approved South Carolina’s request to allow school food authorities (SFAs) impacted by Hurricane Ian to serve meals in a non-congregate setting.

On September 28, 2022, in the wake of Hurricane Ian, the Department of Homeland Security issued a reminder that accessing disaster services will not lead to immigration enforcement action.

On September 26, 2022, USDA announced additional steps it is taking to provide relief to Puerto Rico, which was hard hit by Hurricane Fiona. These include approval of temporary flexibilities for Child Nutrition Program operations, an extension of the period NAP benefits may be used to purchase hot prepared food, and distribution of USDA foods for pre-packed boxes for households and congregate feeding at 2,500 shelters.

On September 20, 2022, USDA approved Puerto Rico’s request for a waiver of its state plan to allow hot prepared food purchases with the Nutrition Assistance Program (NAP) card in the aftermath of Hurricane Fiona.

On September 18, 2022, President Biden declared an emergency for Puerto Rico, which was being affected by Fiona, which began as a tropical storm before becoming a major hurricane.

FEMA Updates — EM-3583-PR

For updates from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), including local resources, visit the official FEMA site.

Key Takeways for Disaster Recovery

Read FRAC’s Five Key Lessons for Disaster Preparation and Recovery, written on the five year anniversary of Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria.

For the latest Hurricane Ida updates, check out FRAC’s Hurricane Ida Resource Center: FRAC.org/Ida

Early December 2021 tornadoes caused fatalities and other destruction across a wide number of states, including, among others, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Arkansas. Visit our dedicated page on the disaster to learn more about relief efforts.