Texas SNAP recipients eligible to replace lost food

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Governor Abbott and the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) announced two new policies this week aimed at helping low-income Texans recover food lost during last week's severe winter storm.

Texans participating in SNAP are now eligible to replace food that was lost or destroyed due to power outages by requesting replacement benefits.

SNAP participants can request replacement benefits by calling 2-1-1 and selecting Option 2. Hold times may temporarily rise as Texans avail themselves of the benefits replacement option.

"If you need to replace the food you purchased with SNAP, please call 2-1-1 and be patient with their operators," said Celia Cole, CEO of Feeding Texas. "Call volume is high right now, but this is still the fastest way to get replacement benefits."

All SNAP participants are also temporarily able to purchase hot and prepared foods at authorized retailers through March 31.

"Texans need maximum flexibility to feed their families during times of disaster," said Cole. "We applaud the state for moving swiftly to help storm victims access food and put warm meals back on the family table."

Texans seeking immediate assistance beyond SNAP are encouraged to contact their local food bank, which can be located at <www.feedingtexas.org/get-help>.

Feeding Texas leads a unified effort for a hunger-free Texas.

<www.feedingtexas.org>