JIC Recovery Release No. 54 - Disaster SNAP Benefits Available for Residents that Do Not Qualify for SNAP

The Department of Public Health and Social Services (DPHSS) and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the launch of the Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP). D-SNAP gives food assistance to low-income households with food loss or damage caused by a natural disaster. D-SNAP has income and asset limitations. D-SNAP extends benefits to many households that would not ordinarily qualify but suddenly need food assistance because of a disaster. 

“Today, we are proud to announce additional financial support for families affected by Typhoon Mawar, especially those who have yet to have their power restored and have been challenged with food preservation to feed their families,” said Governor Lou Leon Guerrero. “In the aftermath of Typhoon Mawar, we extend a caring hand to our community. Applying for the Disaster SNAP program is a powerful act of self-care and resilience. Let us help in your recovery,” 

“We encourage families who would not have otherwise been eligible for SNAP benefits to examine the increased threshold under Disaster SNAP and check for eligibility,” added Lt. Governor Joshua Tenorio.

D-SNAP benefits are provided via an electronic debit-like card and can be used to purchase food items at authorized food retailers. Recipients already enrolled in SNAP are not eligible to receive D-SNAP assistance. Individuals must bring a valid I.D. and must apply at the following approved D-SNAP enrollment centers:

Residents in Dededo, Harmon, Tumon, and Yigo are encouraged to apply at the Micronesian Mall in Dededo, residents in Agana Heights, Hagatna, Mangilao, Mongmong-Toto-Maite, Ordot-Chalan Pago, Piti, and Yona are encouraged to apply at GPO in Tamuning, and residents in Agat, Inalahan, Talofofo and Umatac are encouraged to apply at the Inalahan Senior Citizens Center in Inalahan. 

Each site will serve applicants based on the applicant’s last name using the following schedule:

Below is an income table, to help determine if you qualify for this program, as well as the allotment you would be awarded:

Household income may also be adjusted for any disaster-related expenses that the applicant experienced from the effects of Typhoon Mawar, such as damage or destruction of household. Below is a list of approved expenses:

• Home and Business Repairs and Property Protection

• Temporary Shelter and Evacuation Expenses

• Disaster Related funeral, pet boarding and medical expenses

• Replacement of necessary personal items such as clothing, appliances, tools, and educational materials

• Clean up expenses, and storage expenses

• Food Loss

Retirement accounts, disaster related payments from either governmental and/or non-governmental organizations will not be counted against D-SNAP applicants. If awarded, individuals will only receive a month’s worth of benefits. Any self-attestation provided to DPHSS in order to apply for D-SNAP benefits are subject to any and all audit requirements enforced by the Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) under the USDA.

Visit the following links for the latest information:

• Governor’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govlouguam

• GHS/OCD Website: https://ghs.guam.gov/

• GHS/OCD Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GHSOCD/

For more information, contact the Joint Information Center at (671) 478-0208/09/10.