The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has stepped up to aid residents grappling with the aftermath of last week’s severe weather. Residents who rely on SNAP benefits to put food on their tables and were adversely impacted by the relentless storms may now find solace in the prospect of receiving replacement food assistance.
The decision comes as a ray of hope for families and individuals who endured the wrath of nature’s fury. “Michigan residents who receive benefits through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) should not go without food for their families as a result of the power outages from last week’s storm,” MDHHS Director Elizabeth Hertel stated. “We stand ready to help them by replacing food they purchased with SNAP benefits,” she added.
How to get your lost SNAP benefits replaced in Michigan
Food stamp recipients in Michigan, who lost them during the recent inclement weather, are going to receive them, as long as they live in certain affected counties. On the other hand, the people who were receiving Pandemic-EBT benefits under federal requirements are not eligible for replacement food assistance.
The SNAP beneficiaries to expect their funds to be restores are those living in the next counties:
- Branch
- Hillsdale
- Jackson
- Lenawee
- Livingston
- Macomb
- Monroe
- Oakland
- Washtenaw
- Wayne
The amount that will be replaced to the families is based on the amount in which the food they lost was valued, up to a maximum equivalent to one month of food stamps. Those who wish to request the replacement of their food stamps should make a simple phone call to 844-464-3447. The deadline to apply is next August 7, 2023.
Who qualifies for SNAP benefits in Michigan?
The eligibility criteria for SNAP benefits in Michigan recently became more easy-going, making it easier for families in need to receive assistance. Income limits are now set at 200% of the federal poverty level, allowing most families to qualify for food aid. This means a family of three, with a gross monthly income of about $4,143, can now benefit from the program. Moreover, the cumbersome asset limit of $15,000, which included vehicles, homes, and bank accounts, has been lifted. SNAP benefits will be based solely on the applicant’s current income, disregarding any assets they may possess.
College students in Michigan can also benefit from SNAP if they meet income requirements and are enrolled at least half-time in an occupational program. This opens up doors for many students pursuing education and career goals, supporting them in their journey. Additionally, elderly and disabled individuals receive special consideration, with potential exemptions from certain income and asset tests.
Can college students in Michigan receive SNAP benefits?
The short answer to that question is that yes, college students can receive SNAP benefits, but they must meet certain requirements, which were expanded during the pandemic so that more students received aid, and these were largely maintained. The first thing is that students in particular must attend an institution of higher education, at least half-time. This includes colleges, universities, trade schools, and technical school.
College students inscribed in careers and technical education programs under the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the Twenty-First Century Act of 2018, commonly known as Perkins V, are also eligible for SNAP if they meet income and other program requirements, according to the official website of Michigan’s MDHHS.
Discover more about the Perkins Postsecondary Career & Technical Education program here, in which you’re also eligible for the food stamps. Take into account that, as any other applicant, you must provide documentation from your school that proves you are actually an enrolled student.