Texans Empowered to Nourish Themselves: SNAP Benefits Now Cover Hot Meals Amid Hurricane Beryl Recovery

In a significant move aimed at supporting Texans affected by the devastating Hurricane Beryl, Governor Greg Abbott has announced that individuals receiving SNAP benefits can now use them to purchase hot foods. This new provision, approved by the federal government, is a critical step in ensuring the well-being of those impacted by the disaster, providing them with the flexibility to access hot, ready-to-eat meals during these challenging times.

Empowering Texans to Nourish Themselves in Times of Crisis

Expanding SNAP Benefits to Cover Hot Meals

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission has been authorized by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Services to allow SNAP recipients in 36 counties impacted by Hurricane Beryl to purchase hot foods and ready-to-eat meals with their benefits. This new measure is a significant development, as it grants SNAP recipients the ability to access a wider range of nourishing options, including rotisserie chicken, grocery store deli items, and other hot, prepared foods available at participating retailers.This expansion of SNAP benefits comes at a crucial time, as many Texans continue to grapple with the aftermath of the hurricane, including power outages and disruptions to their daily routines. By providing the flexibility to purchase hot meals, the state aims to ensure that affected individuals and families have access to fresh, quality food during these challenging circumstances.

Ensuring Access to Nourishment for Texans in Need

The 36 counties approved for this SNAP benefit expansion are Angelina, Austin, Brazoria, Calhoun, Chambers, Cherokee, Colorado, Fort Bend, Galveston, Grimes, Hardin, Harris, Houston, Jackson, Jasper, Jefferson, Lavaca, Liberty, Madison, Matagorda, Montgomery, Nacogdoches, Newton, Orange, Polk, Rusk, Sabine, San Augustine, San Jacinto, Shelby, Trinity, Tyler, Victoria, Walker, Waller, and Wharton.This targeted approach ensures that the communities most impacted by Hurricane Beryl have the resources they need to access hot, nourishing meals during the recovery process. By empowering SNAP recipients in these counties to purchase a wider range of food options, the state is demonstrating its commitment to supporting the well-being of its citizens in times of crisis.

Prioritizing Nutrition and Resilience in the Face of Disaster

Governor Abbott emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "With power outages still affecting Texans, this federal approval for 36 counties will help eligible Texans purchase hot, ready-to-eat meals for themselves and their families. I thank the Texas Health and Human Services Commission for their work to provide fresh, healthy foods for our fellow Texans in need."This expansion of SNAP benefits to cover hot meals is a testament to the state's dedication to ensuring that affected Texans have access to the nourishment they need to weather the storm and rebuild their lives. By prioritizing the availability of hot, ready-to-eat meals, the state is recognizing the vital role that proper nutrition plays in supporting the resilience and well-being of individuals and communities during times of crisis.As Texans continue to navigate the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl, this new SNAP benefit provision stands as a shining example of the state's commitment to supporting its citizens and empowering them to nourish themselves, even in the face of adversity.