Press Release: Flood Victims May Be Eligible For Food Benefit

County residents from Cranford and other municipalities who suffered losses due to may be eligible for a one-time food benefit ranging from $200 to a maximum of $1,202, the Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders announced.

Residents meeting the Federal Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program income guidelines can apply at three locations including: Union County’s “One Stop” Centers through the Division of Social Services offices in Elizabeth and Plainfield along with a temporary site at 65 East Cherry St. that has been established specifically for this purpose.

“There are many residents who have been severely impacted by Hurricane Irene and need help to make ends meet,” Freeholder Chairwoman Deborah Scanlon said. “We certainly encourage those who are in need and may be eligible to apply for food assistance.”

The amount of the assistance varies according to gross monthly income to family size. County social services staff has received training from the State and will assist eligible residents in completing a short application. If approved, the benefit will be electronically applied to a debit/credit card and will be available within three days of completing the application.

For residents already receiving SNAP benefits, the one-time benefit will be applied to their cards. All three sites will be open to take applications Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

LOCATIONS:

The Elizabeth One Stop Center is located at 921 Elizabeth Ave. in Elizabeth. 908-558-8000

The Plainfield One Stop Center is located at 200 West Second St. in Plainfield. 908-757-9090

65 East Cherry St. in Rahway.