For residents of North Carolina utilizing Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) benefits, accessing hot, prepared food just became easier. In response to the disruption caused by Hurricane Helene, a temporary change has been implemented, allowing FNS recipients to use their Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards to purchase hot meals from authorized retailers across all 100 counties of North Carolina. This crucial update offers immediate relief to nearly 700,000 households enrolled in the FNS program, ensuring access to warm food even when cooking at home is not an option.
This flexibility, facilitated by close collaboration between the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, is a direct response to the challenges posed by Hurricane Helene. Recognizing that many families are facing displacement and power outages, this measure aims to provide a sense of normalcy and comfort through access to hot food.
“For people and families in North Carolina whose lives have been turned upside down by Hurricane Helene, a hot meal can provide a small comfort and sense of normalcy to their day,” stated Governor Roy Cooper. “This flexibility helps us make sure everyone has access to basic necessities while we continue to work to restore services to impacted communities.”
Temporary Hot Food Benefit for NC EBT Cardholders
Starting immediately and extending until November 3, 2024, North Carolina FNS beneficiaries can use their EBT cards to purchase hot foods. This includes any food prepared for immediate consumption at authorized EBT retailers. This is a significant benefit for those unable to cook at home due to power outages or displacement caused by the hurricane.
Secretary Kody H. Kinsley of NC Health and Human Services emphasized the state’s commitment to the well-being of North Carolinians: “This benefit will support families who are reeling from the effects of Hurricane Helene with hot food they can purchase with their EBT card. We are 100% committed to the health and wellbeing of our friends, family, and fellow North Carolinians in every corner of western North Carolina — now and for the long haul.”
It’s important to note that this is an automatic benefit; there is no need to apply. However, it is advised to check with the store beforehand to confirm they can process hot food purchases with FNS benefits. This expanded benefit is available at authorized EBT retailers, such as gas stations and deli departments, but does not extend to restaurants or non-EBT authorized establishments.
Finding EBT Hot Food Near You
To easily locate participating retailers that accept EBT for hot food purchases, North Carolina FNS recipients can utilize the USDA’s interactive map. This online tool allows users to search for authorized SNAP retailers in their vicinity, ensuring they can quickly find “Ebt Hot Food Near Me”.
Explore the Map of EBT Retailers
Alt text: Interactive map displaying locations of EBT retailers in North Carolina, helpful for finding ebt hot food near me.
By using this map, individuals can pinpoint the nearest locations to purchase hot meals using their EBT benefits, simplifying access to food during this challenging time. Remember to look for authorized vendors like convenience stores, supermarkets with deli counters, and certain gas stations that are approved EBT retailers.
Additional Support for Hurricane Helene Victims
Beyond the temporary hot food benefit, North Carolina is providing further assistance to FNS participants affected by Hurricane Helene. Recognizing the difficulties in reporting food loss due to displacement and storm-related hardships, the state has secured a waiver extending the deadline to report food loss to local Department of Social Services offices until October 26, 2024.
Furthermore, NCDHHS has requested a waiver for automatic replacement of a portion of September FNS benefits for those in western North Carolina who experienced food loss due to the hurricane. Approval is pending, and notifications will be issued with further details once granted.
Looking ahead, NCDHHS is actively collaborating with the USDA to gain federal authorization for a Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP). D-SNAP would broaden food assistance eligibility to more individuals impacted by Hurricane Helene, including those not currently enrolled in FNS. More information regarding the D-SNAP program will be released upon approval.
Accessing Further Information and Support
For comprehensive details about the FNS program, please visit www.ncdhhs.gov/fns. Additional resources and information related to Hurricane Helene recovery efforts can be found at www.ncdps.gov/Helene and www.ncdhhs.gov/helene.
Navigating the aftermath of a hurricane can be emotionally challenging. If you or someone you know needs support, the Disaster Distress Helpline is available at 1-800-985-5990. Confidential help is also accessible 24/7 through call, text, or chat by dialing 988 or visiting 988Lifeline.org.
This temporary expansion of EBT benefits to include hot food offers a vital lifeline for North Carolinians affected by Hurricane Helene, ensuring access to nutritious meals during recovery. Utilize the provided resources and retailer map to find “ebt hot food near me” and access the support available during this time.
