Gov. Greg Abbott of Texas has announced that the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) will provide more than $310 million in emergency Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) food benefits for the month of November as part of the state’s response to COVID-19.
“Our continued investment in emergency SNAP benefits has ensured Texas families can put food on the table throughout the COVID-19 pandemic,” Abbott said in a statement.
“Thank you to HHSC and USDA for ensuring these resources reach Texans across the state.”
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The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is the largest federal nutrition assistance program.
SNAP provides benefits to eligible low-income individuals and families via an Electronic Benefits Transfer card. This card can be used like a debit card to purchase eligible food in authorized retail food stores.
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The Texas Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is provided to low-income families and individuals who need help buying food. This program, also known as food stamps, makes it easier for eligible families to afford groceries.
Beneficiaries receive an electronic benefit transfer (EBT) card that works much like a debit card. Every month, funds are loaded onto the EBT card. In Texas, EBT cards are also referred to as Lone Star Cards.
The total amount of TX SNAP benefits you may receive varies depending on factors related to your household. In most cases, SNAP food stamps do not cover your entire grocery expense for the month.
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Instead, this benefit is meant to supplement your existing resources and make it easier for you to afford food for the month.
To be eligible for this benefit program, you must be a resident of the state of Texas and have a current bank balance (savings and checking combined) under $2,001, or have a current bank balance (savings and checking combined) under $3,001 who share their household with a person or persons age 60 and over or a person with a disability.
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Texas SNAP benefits are accepted at a wide range of grocery stores, supermarkets, convenience stores and even some farmers’ markets. Retail locations will usually post a logo on the door indicating that they accept EBT cards.
“We are proud to be able to help Texans get nutritious food for their families and have peace of mind as they celebrate the holiday season together,” Texas HHS Access and Eligibility Services Deputy Executive Commissioner Wayne Salter said.
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