US Department of Agriculture Approves HHSC Emergency SNAP Food Benefits Extension

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission has been granted federal approval by the U.S.The Department of Agriculture to increase SNAP benefits to the maximum. Governor Greg Abbott announced that the HHSC would provide more than $341.4 million in emergency  SNAP food benefits for December 2022.

Holiday Gift for Texans 

All SNAP food benefit recipients will receive a minimum of $95 in emergency funds, which will be available in their respective accounts by Dec. 31. This emergency aid is in addition to the more than $9 billion in benefits already provided to Texans since April 2020. This benefit is expected to reach and help 1.6 million Texans. 

Governor Greg Abbott thanked HHSC for extending SNAP benefits this December, ensuring that Texans have healthy food to eat this holiday season and a way to care for their loved ones.

Texas HHS Access and Eligibility Services Deputy Executive Commissioner Wayne Salter is also grateful for the opportunity to help Texans this holiday season, a source posted. 

Additional December Benefits for Texans 

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission administers SNAP benefits in Texas, which are distributed to Texas Lone Star Cards once a month. Every month, benefits, including food stamps, are distributed to SNAP accounts on the same schedule.

Governor Greg Abbott also stated that the U.S. Agriculture Department The HHSC approved the fifth round of federal Pandemic Electronic Benefits Transfer food for Texas families with children who were temporarily denied access to federally funded summer meal programs as a result of COVID-19.

Abbot appreciates HHSC and TEA’s support in collaborating with USDA to provide these food benefits to Texas families. He promises that the state of Texas will continue to assist families and children affected by school closures in obtaining nutritious meals.