Locations set up to apply for food stamps

People impacted by Hurricane Gustav last week who want to apply for food stamps can begin doing so today at various locations throughout the Teche Area.

Almetra Franklin, St. Mary Community Action Agency director, said these are different from typical food stamps and applicants will be allowed to deduct some storm-related expenses from their income amounts to help more people qualify for the program.

She said applications will be taken from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. today and offices will be open for the next seven days.

Applicants must have lived in one of the 31 parishes affected by the storm as of Aug. 29, said Louisa Reddell, community specialist with the state Department of Social Services.

Reddell said applicants should provide photo identification, name, date of birth and Social Security number for all household members and proof of residency.

The disaster income limits for food stamp assistance according to the Department of Social Services is $2,079 per month for a household consisting of one person, $2,707 for a household of two, $3,108 for three, $3,663 for four, $4,033 for five, $4,504 for six, $4,770 for seven, $5,183 for eight and $413 for each additional household member after eight. For those people who experienced loss from Hurricane Gustav but do not qualify for food stamp assistance, Franklin said they can try to file a claim with their homeowners insurance to cover the cost of lost food items or try contacting FEMA.

More information about the food stamp program is available at (888) LAHELPU.