SNAP replacement benefits deadline approaches for Big Island households impacted by second Kona low storm

Families receiving federal food assistance and impacted by the Kona low storm from March 20-23, have until April 9 to apply for replacement benefits with the Hawai‘i Department of Human Services.

Replacement benefits are available to eligible households that lost food purchased with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, due to storm-related household misfortune, including power outages. The amount of replacement benefits is based on the value of food lost, not to exceed the household’s monthly SNAP allotment.

The April 9 deadline applies only to SNAP households in the following impacted areas of Hawai‘i County:

Hāwī (96719)
Hōlualoa (96725)
Kailua-Kona (96740, 96745)
Kamuela (96743)
Keaʻau (96749)
Kealakekua (96750)
Kapaʻau (96755)
Kurtistown (96760)
Mountain View (96771)
Nā‘ālehu (96772)
Pāhoa (96778)
Volcano (96785)

Households in these areas that experienced food loss may apply by contacting any Department of Human Resources Processing Center or calling the Public Assistance Information Line at 1-855-643-1643.

To request replacement benefits, households must submit a signed written statement that includes:

• Name of the SNAP participant
• Estimated value of food lost
• Description of what occurred and when
• Contact information

A sample written statement is available on the DHS website; however, households may submit their own statement and are not required to use the sample form.

All submissions will be reviewed and validated. Approved households will receive replacement benefits following the review process.

For more information, visit the DHS website or contact the nearest DHS Processing Center.