Governor Greg Abbott announced that the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) has received federal approval to extend Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits to include hot foods for recipients in 26 additional counties affected by recent flooding. This decision allows those impacted to purchase hot meals with their benefits.
“As communities across the state begin to recover and rebuild from flood damage, Texas is working tirelessly to ensure that impacted Texans can feed their families,” said Governor Abbott. “Texas remains unrelenting in our support of those impacted by these tragic floods, and we will continue to provide all available resources to help them rebuild and recover. Together, we are Texas strong.”
Molly Regan, Deputy Executive Commissioner of HHSC Access and Eligibility Services, stated: “By adding these additional counties, we’re making sure that those affected by the storms and flooding will have access to hot, nutritious foods to take care of their families and themselves. This will help alleviate some of the stress as Texas focuses on recovering from the floods.”
The newly approved counties include Bastrop, Bell, Blanco, Brown, Burnet, Caldwell, Coke, Concho, Hays, Irion, Lampasas, Lee, Llano, Mason McCulloch Menard Milam Mills Reagan Runnels San Saba Schleicher Sterling Tom Green Travis Williamson.
Federal approval permits SNAP recipients in these areas to use their Lone Star Cards at participating retailers for hot food purchases until August 14. Hot foods encompass items such as rotisserie chicken and grocery store deli offerings.
Previously approved counties under this initiative were Bandera Edwards Gillespie Kendall Kerr Kimble Real.
SNAP recipients do not need to take any action to receive this benefit extension.
For further assistance related to flooding impacts or local resources like food or shelter options Texans can visit the HHSC Receiving Disaster Assistance webpage or dial 2-1-1 selecting Option 1.
