County: Hurricane Victims May be Eligible for Food Benefit

Union County officials announced today that residents who  suffered losses due to Hurricane Irene may be eligible for a one-time food benefit ranging from $200 to a maximum of $1202.

Residents meeting the Federal Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program income guidelines can apply from Monday, Sept. 12 at three locations.

“There are many residents who have been severely impacted by Hurricane Irene and need help to make ends meet,” Freeholder Chairwoman Deborah Scanlon said. “We certainly encourage those who are in need and may be eligible to apply for food assistance.”

The amount of the assistance varies according to gross monthly income to family size. County social services staff will assist eligible residents in completing a short application. If approved, the benefit will be electronically applied to a debit/credit card and will be available within three days of completing the application.

For residents already receiving SNAP benefits, the one-time benefit will be applied to their cards. All three sites will be open to take applications Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

LOCATIONS

The Elizabeth Social Service Building is located at 342 Westminster Avenue in Elizabeth. 

The Social Services Building in Plainfield is located at 200 West Second Street in Plainfield. 908-757-9090

65 East Cherry Street in Rahway.