GRAYSON COUNTY, Va. (WFXR) – Grayson County residents may be eligible for assistance through the temporary Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP).
On November 14, 2024, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) approved the Virginia Department of Social Services (DSS) to provide D-SNAP in eight counties hit by Tropical Storm Helene, which began on September 25, 2024.
D-SNAP provides food assistance to low-income households who have experienced losses after a natural disaster. The program uses different qualification criteria than regular Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), or food stamps. This means households do not have to qualify for SNAP, however can be eligible for D-SNAP.
On Monday, November 18 through Friday, November 22, the application process will take place for Grayson County residents.
Applications will be accepted at the Grayson County Department of Social Services at 129 Davis Street, Independence, Va. Office hours during the application period will be extended to 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Applicants are advised to bring their photo I.D. along with proof of the residence impacted by the storm, and any documents of disaster-related expenses/losses.
Current recipients of SNAP do not need to submit another application as they will already receive an automatic supplement for D-SNAP benefits.
To qualify, you must meet the following Federal Disaster Gross Income Limit guidelines and experience:
- A loss of food or income, including a reduction or termination of income, or a significant delay in receiving income,
- Damage to or destruction of their home or business,
- Or additional disaster-related expenses, such as home repairs, temporary shelter, or evacuation costs that are not expected to be reimbursed
For more D-SNAP information on eligibility and the application process, call the Grayson County Department of Social Services at 276-773-2452.