Texas families impacted by flooding get extended support through SNAP program

Austin, Texas – In a continued effort to support families affected by devastating flooding across the state, Governor Greg Abbott announced that the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) has received federal approval to extend the deadline for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients to apply for replacement benefits. This extension, granted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, pushes the deadline through August 18, giving families more time to request aid for food lost or destroyed by the disaster.

Extended Help for More Counties

Governor Abbott emphasized the state’s ongoing commitment to flood survivors, stating, “The State of Texas continues to support Texans impacted by the recent catastrophic flooding so they can care for themselves and their families.” He confirmed that residents in 26 counties are now eligible to apply for SNAP replacement benefits, following the federal government’s approval to include five more counties: Hamilton, Lampasas, Maverick, Sutton, and Uvalde.

The updated list of approved counties now includes:
Bandera, Bexar, Burnet, Caldwell, Coke, Comal, Concho, Gillespie, Guadalupe, Hamilton, Kendall, Kerr, Kimble, Lampasas, Llano, Mason, Maverick, McCulloch, Menard, Reeves, San Saba, Sutton, Tom Green, Travis, Uvalde, and Williamson.

Deputy Executive Commissioner of Access and Eligibility Services Molly Regan added, “During these stressful times, I am thankful we can extend support. Helping families have access to the food they need can bring some relief as they continue to rebuild.”

How to Apply for Replacement SNAP Benefits

To request replacement benefits, SNAP recipients can:

• Call 2-1-1, select a language, and choose option 7

• Download and complete Form H1855 (Affidavit for Nonreceipt or Destroyed SNAP Benefits) from the HHSC website

• Mail the completed form to:
  Texas Health and Human Services Commission
  P.O. Box 149027
  Austin, TX, 78714-9027

• Or fax the form to: 877-447-2839

Once approved, replacement benefits will be added to Lone Star Cards within two business days.

Hot Food Purchases Temporarily Allowed

In addition to replacement benefits, hot food purchases using Lone Star Cards remain permitted through August 14 in 33 counties. This temporary allowance enables the purchase of items like rotisserie chicken and hot deli meals directly from grocery stores, which are usually restricted under standard SNAP guidelines. No action is needed by recipients to access this temporary benefit.

Where to Find More Assistance

For ongoing support and resources, Texans affected by disasters are encouraged to visit the HHSC Receiving Disaster Assistance webpage. Additionally, residents can dial 2-1-1 and select option 1 to find local resources, including food assistance and shelter.

This extension and added flexibility come as part of Texas’s broader initiative to provide stability and immediate aid to those suffering in the aftermath of catastrophic flooding.