Severe weather can cause significant damage to communities, often leading to the loss of food for many households.
If you’re a recipient of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in Oregon and lost food due to a natural disaster like floods, storms, or power outages, you might be eligible for SNAP replacement benefits in 2024.
This article will guide you through the steps on how to request these benefits, so you can receive the support you need as quickly as possible.
What Is SNAP Replacement?
SNAP Replacement refers to a process where the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) allows states to provide benefits to replace food lost due to natural disasters.
In Oregon, if you used your SNAP benefits to buy food that was destroyed during severe weather events, you can apply for reimbursement.
However, it’s important to note that this benefit is only available to people who were affected by disasters that occurred last month.
How to Request SNAP Replacement in Oregon?
If you’ve lost food because of severe weather, you can request replacement benefits through three simple ways:
1. Visit a Local Office
You can visit a nearby Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) office to fill out the necessary paperwork in person. This method is convenient if you prefer direct assistance and are close to an office.
- Find an Office: Use the ODHS Office Finder to locate the nearest office to you.
2. Call the SNAP Hotline
If you can’t visit in person, you can always call the SNAP hotline to request a replacement. Dial 800-699-9075 to speak with a representative who will help you start the replacement process.
3. Submit an Online Form
For those who prefer a digital process, you can download and complete the SNAP replacement form online. Once the form is filled out, email it to [email protected] for processing.
- Form Link: SNAP Replacement Form
Deadlines for Requesting Replacement
General Deadline
You must submit your SNAP replacement request within 10 days of the date when your food was lost due to severe weather or disaster. Make sure to act quickly to meet this deadline.
Extended Deadline for Select Counties
For certain counties that faced extended disaster impacts, residents have an extended deadline until December 18, 2024, to request SNAP replacements. If you live in one of the following counties, you have more time to submit your request:
- Benton
- Clackamas
- Clatsop
- Coos
- Deschutes
- Douglas
- Jackson
- Jefferson
- Josephine
- Klamath
- Lake
- Lane
- Lincoln
- Linn
- Malheur
- Marion
- Multnomah
- Polk
- Tillamook
- Umatilla
- Washington
- Yamhill
If you are located in one of these counties, be sure to take advantage of the extended deadline to file your request.
Key Points to Remember
- Eligibility: SNAP replacement benefits are only available for food that was purchased with SNAP benefits and was destroyed due to severe weather conditions.
- Documentation: When submitting your request, make sure you can provide details about the disaster, such as the type of event (floods, storms, etc.), the date it occurred, and the food that was lost.
- Reimbursement: If your replacement request is approved, the replacement benefits will be added to your SNAP EBT card, allowing you to access the funds quickly and securely.
Conclusion
If you lost food due to severe weather in Oregon, you have options to get SNAP replacement benefits. It’s important to act fast and submit your request either through a local office, by calling the SNAP hotline, or by submitting an online form.
Make sure you know the deadlines and have the required information ready for a smooth process. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that you receive the support you need during challenging times.
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