In the wake of Hurricane Helene’s devastation across Western North Carolina, communities are coming together to ensure that families have access to the food they need. Donated supplies are pouring into the area and there are amazing stories of people, organizations, and companies providing hot meals to those in need. In addition to volunteer efforts, the USDA Food and Nutrition Service has approved several waivers to help NC DPI and NC DHHS provide critical food assistance during this difficult time. Updates from the USDA will be posted on this webpage dedicated to NC Disaster Nutrition Assistance. Here’s a brief overview of key programs in place to support students and families in the aftermath:
Child Nutrition Programs
When schools face unexpected closures, such as those caused by Hurricane Helene, the Summer Nutrition Program sponsors are able to provide free meals to kids and teenagers under the age of 18. Thanks to waivers, there is flexibility in how meals are distributed. Meals can be eaten offsite, and parents or guardians can pick them up, making it easier for families to access this vital support.
These flexibilities extend to the National School Lunch Program and the School Breakfast Program as well. This is particularly helpful for schools offering remote learning in impacted areas. Families are encouraged to visit their school district’s website or social media channels for updates on meal service locations and times.
Additionally, the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) has received approval for similar flexibilities. Families can pick up meals, and meals can be consumed offsite, ensuring that children in care settings still receive nutritious meals, despite the disruption caused by the hurricane.
SUN Bucks and SNAP Assistance
For families participating in the SUN Bucks program, any remaining benefits can be used to purchase hot foods through November 3. This extension provides much-needed relief for families coping with the storm’s aftermath.
SNAP recipients in 23 Western NC counties will see an additional boost in their benefits. Families will receive 70% of their total monthly September benefits back on their EBT card, offering significant relief to those who may have lost food due to power outages or flooding. Just like with SUN Bucks, SNAP benefits can also be used to purchase hot foods through November 3.
Looking Ahead: D-SNAP
North Carolina has applied for Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP) assistance, which will further help families recovering from the hurricane. As of October 7, approval is still pending, but updates will be available soon.
For the latest on food assistance programs and any additional updates from NC DHHS, families should stay connected with their local agencies.
In times like these, it’s essential that families know where they can turn for support. We encourage everyone to share this information with those affected by Hurricane Helene and keep an eye on school district announcements for updated meal distribution locations. Together, we can help ensure that no student or family goes hungry during this recovery.