Since Saturday, November 16, Florida has initiated a special food assistance rollout targeting communities hit hardest by recent hurricanes. The D-SNAP program (Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) has set up service points in various counties to assist individuals and families facing financial or material losses who are not currently receiving food aid through the regular SNAP program.
One of the primary distribution centers is located at the Fasano Regional Hurricane Shelter in Pasco County on Denton Avenue. This initiative aims to provide much-needed food assistance to those struggling to meet basic needs due to the hurricanes’ impact.
What is D-SNAP and who qualifies for it?
D-SNAP is a federal assistance program tailored for people who are not enrolled in the regular SNAP program but are facing exceptional circumstances caused by a disaster. According to Cindy Long from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the program is designed for individuals and families who have experienced income loss, property damage, displacement, or food spoilage due to power outages or flooding.
It’s crucial to note that those already receiving SNAP benefits should not visit D-SNAP service points, as this program is exclusively for non-SNAP participants who meet disaster-related eligibility criteria.
How to apply for D-SNAP
To streamline the process, Florida’s Department of Children and Families (DCF) recommends that applicants complete an online pre-registration before visiting any service points. The online portal will remain open throughout the event, making it easier for potential recipients to begin the application process.
At the service locations, applicants will undergo an interview, either in person or by phone. If approved during the telephone interview, recipients will receive their EBT card by mail, enabling them to access the program’s benefits.
D-SNAP service locations in Florida
Below are some of the D-SNAP service points, along with dates and operating hours:
Citrus County
- Location: College of Central Florida – Lecanto Campus
- Address: 3800 South Lecanto Hwy, Lecanto, FL 34461
- Dates: November 16–18, 2024
- Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Pasco County
- Location: Fasano Regional Hurricane Shelter
- Address: 11611 Denton Avenue, Hudson, FL 34667
- Dates: November 16–18, 2024
- Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Highlands County
- Location: Highlands County Fairgrounds – Alan Jay Arena
- Address: 781 Magnolia Avenue, Sebring, FL 33870
- Dates: November 18–20, 2024
- Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
In addition to these sites, other service points will open in counties such as Volusia and Highlands to ensure that affected residents have access to the support they need.
Why programs like D-SNAP are essential after hurricanes
Hurricanes not only cause widespread property damage but also disrupt supply chains, destroy crops, and leave families with unplanned expenses. Programs like D-SNAP provide critical relief to those who find it difficult to access food, particularly in rural areas where resources are often scarcer.
These programs are activated when the federal government declares a disaster in specific areas, allowing state and local authorities to deliver direct support to the communities most affected.
The D-SNAP program serves as a vital resource for helping Florida’s communities recover from the devastating effects of hurricanes. While it’s specifically aimed at those who are not regular SNAP recipients, it provides essential support for alleviating food insecurity during a time of critical need.
If you reside in one of the affected areas, take advantage of this program. Remember, timely registration and attendance at the nearest service point within the designated dates are key to receiving assistance.