Last updated: November 18, 2024
In response to the impact of Hurricane Helene, the Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) has compiled and activated a series of resources to support families and individuals affected by the disaster. VDSS is actively providing assistance through various programs, ensuring that impacted households receive the resources they need during this time of recovery and rebuilding.
This page will be updated frequently as additional resources and information are available. Please be sure to check periodically for important updates and guidance.
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Disaster SNAP Program Benefits Available: Virginia is approved to issue Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP) benefits to eligible residents of eight counties: Carroll, Grayson, Scott, Smyth, Tazewell, Washington, Wise and Wythe counties. If you lived in one of these locations between September 25 and October 24 and suffered financial losses from Hurricane Helene, you may qualify for temporary D-SNAP benefits. These benefits are provided through a debit-like card.
You do not have to be a current SNAP customer to be eligible for D-SNAP. While current SNAP recipients are not eligible for D-SNAP, SNAP customers in the affected counties listed above who are not already receiving the maximum allotment in SNAP benefits will automatically receive a supplemental benefit on their existing Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card.
Households applying for D-SNAP must bring a form of identification and also be income-eligible based on this chart. [Español]
Applications will be accepted November 18 - 22, 2024, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. To view a list of locations where you can apply for D-SNAP benefits, click here. [Español]
- Replacing Lost SNAP EBT Cards or Food Benefits: If your EBT card was lost or damaged, call the toll-free EBT customer service help desk at 866-281-2448. The help desk is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and offers support in English or Spanish. SNAP customers can also work with their local department of social services to request a replacement of food purchased with SNAP benefits that were destroyed or spoiled because of a household disaster, including loss of power, flood or fire. Learn more.
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SNAP Hot Food Waiver:
SNAP customers can use their benefits to buy hot, prepared food at approved
retailers in
approved counties/cities
now through Dec. 10, 2024. The hot foods must be purchased at a select
retail food store authorized by the USDA Food and Nutrition Services (FNS).
Look for this sign at approved retailers or contact your
local department of social services
for more information.
- 211 Virginia: If you've been impacted by Hurricane Helene, help is available at 211Virginia.org. Explore a comprehensive list of resources offering direct assistance with housing, medical care and more in your local area. Whether you need immediate help or long-term recovery support, 211 Virginia can guide you to the services that best meet your needs. SEARCH: Disaster Recovery or call, text or chat with a Community Resource Specialist.
- Volunteers and Donations: Are you looking for ways to help? You can find several reputable organizations at Virginia Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD). Volunteer through organizations that you trust. Volunteering with trusted organizations ensures your safety and helps public safety officials focus on meeting affected communities' needs. The United Way of Southwest Virginia has established a volunteer, donation and resource needs center. Individuals can also text DONATE to 247-211 to receive an updated list of current needs at the donation center. Monetary donations can be made to the 2024 Southwest Virginia Disaster Relief Fund.
- Additional Resources:
