Press Release FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Nov. 1, 2021 CONTACT: Bob Wheaton, 517-241-2112, wheatonb@ Gov. Whitmer announces Macomb, Oakland residents affected by summer flood can apply for one-time food assistance payment Disaster Food Assistance Program helps low-income households that did not already receive food assistance benefits during July LANSING, Mich. – Low-income residents of Macomb and Oakland counties who were affected by late June flooding and did not receive food assistance benefits during July 2021 can soon apply for federal Disaster Food Assistance Program benefits, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced today. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) will accept in-person applications during specified hours on six days at locations in each of the two counties beginning Wednesday, Nov. 3. Households determined to be eligible will receive a one-time-only benefit to spend on food that is $430 for a household of two and $782 for a household of four. “Michiganders in Macomb and Oakland counties were among those who saw their homes, property, and prized possessions damaged by historic flooding this year,” Gov. Whitmer said. “In Michigan we look out for one another, and as governor, I want to ensure that every family can recover and thrive through difficult times. I am proud of the work MDHHS is doing to deliver disaster food assistance to impacted families in Macomb and Oakland.” In September Whitmer received approval from President Joe Biden of her request for a presidential disaster declaration related to the summer floods to be extended to Macomb and Oakland counties. Previously, the president approved a similar request for Wayne and Washtenaw counties, which allowed eligible residents of those two counties to apply for Disaster Food Assistance in August. Now USDA Food and Nutrition Service has approved the federal disaster food benefits for the two additional counties. MDHHS will assist impacted residents in applying for Disaster Food Assistance Program benefits. To be eligible, applicants must:
“Addressing food insecurity is always a priority for MDHHS,” said Elizabeth Hertel, the department’s director. “When times are tough – whether from a once-a-decade pandemic or historic flooding – it’s even more important for us to help our neighbors so they don’t have to worry about feeding their families,” Under federal requirements MDHHS will complete an in-person interview with each applicant before the disaster food assistance can be approved. Applicants must provide verification of their identity and are encouraged to bring proof of residence, income, and liquid assets such as the amount of money in their bank accounts during the disaster period, if possible. Proof of citizenship is not required. Face masks will be required at all sites. Applicants are asked to bring their own mask if possible, however, masks will be available if needed. In both counties, applications will be accepted:
Residents can apply at three Kensington Church locations:
People who are elderly or have a disability will have access to prioritized lines, seating, water, handicap-accessible parking and restrooms, and other accommodations as needed. Households approved for Disaster Food Assistance Program benefits will be issued a Bridge Card, an electronic benefits card similar to a debit card that can be used to redeem their food assistance benefits at eligible retail stores and farmers markets. Benefits will be available 24 hours after approval. Households should redeem the benefits promptly. For a list of SNAP authorized retailers, including farmers markets and farm stands, please see USDA’s SNAP retailer locator. In August, MDHHS provided $11.5 million in federal disaster food assistance benefits to residents of Wayne and Washtenaw counties. More details about disaster food assistance are available at Michigan.gov/FoodAssistance |
Macomb, Oakland residents affected by flood can apply for food payment
