Although the state Department of Social Services will not provide emergency SNAP benefits as it did during the South Carolina flood, it will allow those who already receive benefits and who used those benefits this month to have a reimbursement.
Clarendon DSS Director Holly Leyton said Wednesday that her office has already processed about 400 applications for the reimbursement service, which may take up to 10 days.
"The applications go to the state and then immediately go to their card within a day or two," Leyton said. "But we tell them up to 10 days, because it could take that long in some instances. Typically, though, it's a day or two."
On Monday, the state DSS office announced it would not operate any emergency food stamps program due to the effects of Hurriane Matthew.
“If you are already receiving SNAP, your monthly benefits are not affected by the storm, and will be available on your EBT card as normal,” according to a release from the agency, referring to those who had not already received benefits for the month. “For example, if you usually receive your monthly benefit on the 11th of the month, you will still get it tomorrow. If you do not have food or water in the next 24-48 hours and it is safe to travel from your location, please visit the emergency shelter operating in your area or your local food bank.”
With the current announcement, those who had already used their SNAP benefits for the month will now be allowed to apply for reimbursement.
Those not currently receiving SNAP benefits who need assistance on an ongoing basis may apply for SNAP benefits online, in person, or by mail or fax. For more information on how to apply or to download an application to print out, visit www.dss.sc.gov.
To apply in person visit your local county DSS office.
UPDATE: Steps to apply for reimbursements
