By Erin Smith
Bladen County Department of Social Services Director Vickie Smith addressed the Bladen Country Board of Commissioners. Smith updated the board regarding the disaster food and nutrition benefits (DSNAP) and FEMA.
Smith said that as of Monday the NC Department of Health and Human Services has not approved DSNAP.
Smith said that in order to better assist households since the disaster DSS has been offering extended hours to assist families that work. She stressed that it was Just for the food and nutrition unit only.
Smith have the following numbers:
On Saturday DSS assisted 83 households
On Sunday DSS assisted 159 households
On Monday by 5 pm DSS had assisted 406 households.
Smith said that NCDHHS has extended the loss and request replacement to October 28. She said that normal operating hours will resume on Wednesday.
When asked about DSNAP and whether it may be implemented Smith said there are daily statewide conference calls taking place.
She sis it is possible the state could release DSNAP soon. Smith said the DSS staff have developed a plan to handle the distribution if it is activated. Smith said DSS is also Training staff for DSNAP.
Currently, those who already received food stamps can receive replacement benefits, said Smith.
Smith said a little under 4000 household receive food stamps in Bladen County.
Smith said that the DSS staff are encouraged to look at the communities most affected.
If the disaster program is released anyone who lost food can apply, said Smith.
She said that DSS will also be giving updates to local media.
Smith also said that FEMA representatives met with individuals who were housed at the emergency shelter at East Bladen High School.
Smith said currently there are no FEMA Office sites set up in the county.
Smith said county officials do know that FEMA is visiting families who have submitted applications.
Smith said the Agricultural Service Center located on Smith Circle is prepared for FEMA representatives but officials are not sure when FEMA will set up.
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