The Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP) is available to residents of 25 counties affected by Hurricane Helene who are not currently receiving food benefits (Roy Cooper/Facebook)
He North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) announced that beginning October 18, 2024, residents of 25 western counties and members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians affected by the Hurricane Helene They will be able to request food aid through the Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP).
This measure is aimed at people and households that do not currently receive benefits from the insurance program. Food and Nutrition Services and that were compromised by the devastating effects of the hurricane. “NCDHHS estimates that more than 150,000 people will apply for up to $120 million (approximately €111 million) in D-SNAP benefits,” the governor posted Roy Cooper through its social network Facebook.
According to him NCDHHSD-SNAP offers crucial assistance to affected communities, providing vital access to food to those facing urgent economic need due to the natural disaster. This program is especially significant given that many affected households do not currently receive any social assistance from the government in terms of food. The media emphasizes that “D-SNAP is open to individuals and households not currently receiving Food and Nutrition Services benefits,” according to Governor Cooper’s Facebook platform.
The implementation of D-SNAP comes at a valuable time for residents of these hard-hit counties. With Helene leaving a trail of destruction in her wake, the financial impact on individuals and communities is expected to be long-lasting. NCDHHS Sources reported that the request for access to these food benefits was prioritized to allow a faster and more sustained recovery for affected families.
Roy Cooper, governor of North Carolina, announces on his social network where to request help to buy food (Governor Roy Cooper/Facebook)
It is important to note that the logistics for the distribution of these funds are already being detailed by local authorities. In this context, NCDHHS reiterated its commitment to collaborating with local entities to ensure that aid reaches those who need it most efficiently. Several media reports noted the department’s proactivity in developing specific strategies to address the logistical challenges that implementing a program of this magnitude entails.
The participation of 25 counties This program highlights the broad impact that Helene had on North Carolina. Furthermore, the recognition of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians within the areas eligible for this assistance exemplifies the inclusive approach with which this response to the crisis is being addressed. “The significant number of potential applicants reflects the magnitude of the challenge we face,” official sources continued when detailing the forecast made by the authorities.
Governor Roy Cooper made a clear call to affected residents to take advantage of these available resources. Through his social networks, Cooper emphasized the need for unity and collaboration to rebuild communities and ensure food security for its citizens. The importance of this program cannot be understated, according to recent statements shared on its Facebook page.
In addition to the distribution of food aid, concomitant assessments are underway of additional needs that affected areas may require. Initiatives such as the implementation of D-SNAP are only part of a broader effort to mitigate the adverse effects that Helene left in its wake, according to several regional media reports.
Pre-registration begins online on October 15 and the program will run from October 18 to 24. Call the D-SNAP Virtual Call Center at 1-844-453-1117 or visit local D-SNAP sites to apply.
D-SNAP food assistance is key to the recovery of those affected by Hurricane Helene in North Carolina, providing vital access to food to affected households (Roy Cooper/Facebook)
The distribution sites for food, water and basic necessities are located in churches in the three counties:
- Buncombe County: Iglesia Bautista Biltmore, 35 Clayton Road, Arden, NC 28704
- McDowell County: Grace Community Church, 5182 Highway 70 West, Marion, NC 28752
- Watauga County: First Baptist Church, 375 West King Street, Boone, NC 28607
The government also provided information on other important resources for affected communities:
Missing persons report
To report a missing person, or request non-emergency support, you can call: 211 or if calling from outside the state of North Carolina, you can call: 1-888-892-1162.
Storm Damage Cleanup
If your home has damage and you need help with cleanup, call Crisis Cleanup for volunteer organizations that can help you at 844-965-1386.
Volunteers and donations
- If you would like to donate to the North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund, please visit this North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund page.
- If you are looking for information about volunteer opportunities, visit this link.
Additional assistance
- If you are looking for a representative from the North Carolina Joint Information Center, please email: [email protected] or call: 919.825.2599
- For general information, access to resources, or answers to frequently asked questions, visit the DPS Hurricane Helen Spanish site
- If you are looking for information on resources for recovery assistance for a resident affected by the storm, please email [email protected]
