D-SNAP aid available for flooding survivors in Midlands

Residents affected by October’s floods can stop by Word of God Church and Ministries near Dutch Square Center to apply for food stamp assistance.

People who lost property or income can still apply for Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program aid Thursday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., state Department of Social Services spokeswoman Marilyn Matheus said.

Matheus said lines have been long all week as people have waited to apply for assistance. She said several thousand people have come by each day this week.

“It’s very, very hectic over there,” Matheus said. “The parking lot is filled, and people are walking across the street because they’re parking over in Dutch Square.”

The amount dispensed – a one-time benefit – will depend on household size, Matheus said. She said a one-person household would get nearly $200 in food stamps and a two-person household could get a little more than $350.

Matheus said the card given to applicants when they apply can be loaded with funds within three days or so.

Matheus said she has no idea how much money has been given out so far. People who come to apply must provide proof of identity, income, address and loss, Matheus said.

Word of God Church and Ministries is located at 119 Diamond Lane in Columbia.

This story was originally published November 5, 2015 at 1:49 PM with the headline "D-SNAP aid available for flooding survivors in Midlands."