Rocklanders Will Get Feb. Food Stamp Benefits Despite Shutdown

ROCKLAND COUNTY, NY – Most recipients of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits will receive their full February benefits early, due to the ongoing federal government shutdown, county officials said. About 15,000 Rockland residents receive just under $7 million a month in benefits.

Employees of the Department of Social Services were taken off other tasks and worked considerable overtime to successfully complete the recertification process for Rockland residents, said County Executive Ed Day and Commissioner of Social Services Joan Silvestri.

“DSS employees once again have gone above and beyond in service to our residents,” said Day. “I commend Commissioner Silvestri and her team for doing everything possible to ensure that all SNAP recipients get their February benefits.”

The U.S. Department of Agriculture instructed states to issue full February benefits early. This is not an “extra” or “bonus” benefit and households will not receive a second benefit for the month of February.

Current SNAP recipients might receive their February benefits as early as Thursday. SNAP recipients who do not receive their benefits Thursday will receive them on Feb. 1.

Silvestri had a warning for anyone receiving their SNAP checks this week.

“Rockland residents receiving their February SNAP benefits early need to carefully budget the use of these funds as they will need to last until the end of February,” She said. “SNAP serves as the first line of defense against hunger, making sure clients receive their benefits is critically important.”

SNAP benefits are certified by the Department of Social Services on a rotating annual basis with around 1,250 clients being recertified every month.

All February recertification needed to be completed by Tuesday evening.

SNAP benefits are issued through an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) Card. Residents with questions about SNAP benefits should call the Department of Social Services at 845-364-3032.

Image via Shutterstock

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