Governor Abbott Extends SNAP Hot Food Benefits to 26 Texas Counties Affected by Flooding

Today, Governor Greg Abbott announced that the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) has secured federal approval to expand the SNAP program to 26 additional counties impacted by recent flooding. This expansion allows recipients to purchase hot foods and ready-to-eat meals using their benefits.

“Our communities across Texas are still recovering from severe flood damage, and we are committed to ensuring families have access to nourishing food,” said Governor Abbott. “Texas remains steadfast in supporting those affected by these devastating floods, and we will continue to provide every resource necessary for their recovery. Together, we are Texas strong.”

“By adding these counties, flood-affected residents will be able to buy hot, nutritious foods to help care for their families,” stated Molly Regan, Deputy Executive Commissioner of HHSC’s Access and Eligibility Services. “This alleviates some of the stress during the recovery process.”

The newly approved counties include Bastrop, Bell, Blanco, Brown, Burnet, Caldwell, Coke, Concho, Hays, Irion, Lampasas, Lee, Llano, Mason, McCulloch, Menard, Milam, Mills, Reagan, Runnels, San Saba, Schleicher, Sterling, Tom Green, Travis, and Williamson.

This federal approval allows SNAP recipients to purchase items such as rotisserie chicken, deli foods, and other hot foods at the point of sale with their Lone Star Cards at participating stores through August 14.

Initially, this measure applied to residents of Bandera, Edwards, Gillespie, Kendall, Kerr, Kimble, and Real counties.

No action is required by SNAP recipients to benefit from this expansion.