Governor Blunt Asks USDA to Waive 10 Day Rule for Food Stamp Replacement

FROM THE OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR

July 01, 2008

Contact: Jessica Robinson, 573-751-0290


JEFFERSON CITY Gov. Matt Blunt requested that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) waive their ten day rule to file for replacement Food Stamps in Andrew, Atchison, Buchanan, Cape Girardeau, Clark, Holt, Jefferson, Lewis, Lincoln, Marion, Mississippi, New Madrid, Nodaway, Pemiscot, Perry, Pike, Platte, Ralls, St. Charles, St Louis, Ste. Genevieve and Scott counties and the City of St. Louis.

"The ongoing flooding across the state has been devastating for our citizens in the affected areas," Gov. Blunt said. "The loss of food, particularly for low income Missourians, is a serious problem. I am calling on the USDA to extend the window of opportunity for Food Stamp recipients to report their loss. This extension will allow Missourians additional time to call or visit their local Family Support office to request the replacement."

As families return home and assess the damage caused by the recent flooding they are finding their homes in chaos and food that has gone bad. In a letter to the USDA Food and Nutrition Service, Gov. Blunt asked that the time to request replacement Food Stamp benefits for flood victims be extended until July 31st.

The Food Stamps Program is funded by the USDA and administered by the Missouri Department of Social Services Family Support Division. Those who lost food purchased with Food Stamp benefits may call or visit their local Family Support Division Office to have their benefits replaced up to a maximum amount. The regulations call for this to be done within ten days; Gov. Blunt has asked for additional time.

"I want to thank our workers in the Family Support Division for the amazing job they are doing to serve others. They have once again answered the call when disasters strike. They are working hand in hand with community partners to assist their community. I am very proud of the job they are doing," said Deborah Scott, director of Social Services.

The Food Stamp Program has income guidelines; families may qualify if their net income does not exceed 100 percent of the federal poverty level, or $20,000 for a family of four. In order to have food stamp benefits replaced or to be approved for the program, families must meet the income guidelines.

Families affected by the flooding who have questions about their food stamp benefits should contact their local Family Support Division office.