By Emily Burleigh

Families and individuals on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) that have been affected by the Tiger Island Fire can apply for replacement.

Gov. John Bel Edwards spoke at a news conference alongside Terri Ricks, secretary of the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services, to give Louisiana an update on the fires burning throughout the state. They also provided information on how to request food assistance.

“Food assistance is a concern to a lot of people in the impacted areas,” Edwards said.

Many residents were evacuated and lost electricity for 24 consecutive hours or more as a result of the fires. This led to food loss. For households that rely on SNAP, this is a concern.

Ricks said SNAP recipients can apply for assistance through the federal program’s “very generous replacement policy.” If food that has been purchased with SNAP benefits has been spoiled or lost, recipients can make an application for food replacement benefits.

“We are always open to receiving those applications when there has been food loss, and in this specific case, we want to make sure that those who have been impacted by these fires, who have lost power for as many as four days.”

Recipients have 10 days to submit their replacement benefits applications. The value of the replacement will be equivalent to the value of the lost food that was purchased with SNAP benefits, up to the household’s maximum monthly benefit amount. Replacement benefits are added to the recipient’s EBT card within 10 days.

There are three ways to do this: online, via mail or fax and in-person at DCFS offices.

Application by mail can be sent to DPC, P.O. Boc 260031, Baton Rouge, LA 70826-9918. Send fax applications to 225.663.3164.

The SNAP 38 Form can be downloaded online in English, Spanish or Vietnamese.

Online applications can be submitted by visiting dcfs.louisiana.gov.

For more information on local food assistance and resources, dial 211.