SNAP benefits just expanded in these two states—Find out if you qualify!
- Replies 0
If you or someone you love relies on SNAP benefits, there’s important news you won’t want to miss—especially if you live in Kentucky or New Mexico.
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), better known as food stamps, is rolling out expanded benefits in these two states, and the changes could make a real difference for thousands of families and older adults.
Here at The GrayVine, we’re breaking down what’s new, who qualifies, and how you can make the most of these updates.
Why SNAP Matters—Now More Than Ever
Let’s face it: groceries aren’t getting any cheaper. For over a million people across Kentucky and New Mexico, SNAP is a lifeline, helping to put healthy food on the table when budgets are tight.
But when disaster strikes or when our most vulnerable neighbors need a little extra help, sometimes the usual rules just don’t cut it. That’s why these new expansions are so important—and why you should know your rights and options.
Kentucky: Hot Meals Now on the Menu for Storm Survivors
If you’re in Kentucky and have been affected by the recent severe storms, there’s a silver lining: SNAP rules have been temporarily relaxed in 26 counties hit hardest by the weather.
Normally, SNAP benefits can’t be used for hot, prepared meals—just groceries and cold snacks. But with power outages, hundreds of homes damaged, and almost 20 people dead in the Bluegrass state, the USDA is letting SNAP recipients buy hot meals from participating retailers through July 2.
Why is this a big deal? Imagine trying to cook when your kitchen’s out of commission or your fridge is empty after a blackout. This change means you can get a warm meal without worrying about breaking the rules or stretching your budget even thinner.
Are you in one of the affected counties?
Here’s the full list:
Also read: New SNAP eligibility crackdown: Are you at risk of losing your benefits?
If you live in one of these counties and already receive SNAP, you’re automatically eligible for this temporary benefit. Just look for participating stores and ask if they’re part of the program.
New Mexico: Extra Help for Older Adults and People with Disabilities
Meanwhile, in New Mexico, there’s a special boost for SNAP recipients who are over 60 and living with a disability.
If you fit this description, you may have already noticed an extra $68 loaded onto your EBT card this month. This one-time payment was automatically added for nearly 30,000 eligible New Mexicans as of June 3.
Why the extra help? State leaders know that older adults and people with disabilities often face higher food costs and unique challenges.
Also read: Your favorite restaurants could soon accept SNAP benefits—here’s what you need to know!
As Kyra Ochoa from the New Mexico Health Care Authority put it, “Using state general funds to create extra benefits for seniors and people with disabilities is a great example of how strong interdepartmental partnerships can better serve New Mexicans in need.”
Emily Kaltenbach from the Aging and Long-Term Services Department echoed the sentiment, “This boost reflects our shared commitment to ensuring New Mexicans have access to the nutritious food they need.”
What Should You Do Next?
Have you benefited from these new SNAP expansions? Do you have tips for making the most of your food budget, or questions about how these programs work? Share your experiences and advice in the comments below—your story could help a neighbor in need.
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), better known as food stamps, is rolling out expanded benefits in these two states, and the changes could make a real difference for thousands of families and older adults.
Here at The GrayVine, we’re breaking down what’s new, who qualifies, and how you can make the most of these updates.
Why SNAP Matters—Now More Than Ever
Let’s face it: groceries aren’t getting any cheaper. For over a million people across Kentucky and New Mexico, SNAP is a lifeline, helping to put healthy food on the table when budgets are tight.
But when disaster strikes or when our most vulnerable neighbors need a little extra help, sometimes the usual rules just don’t cut it. That’s why these new expansions are so important—and why you should know your rights and options.
SNAP recipients in 26 Kentucky counties affected by severe storms can now use their benefits to buy hot meals from participating retailers, with the relaxed rules in place until July 2. Image source: WSAZ NewsChannel 3 / Youtube.
Kentucky: Hot Meals Now on the Menu for Storm Survivors
If you’re in Kentucky and have been affected by the recent severe storms, there’s a silver lining: SNAP rules have been temporarily relaxed in 26 counties hit hardest by the weather.
Normally, SNAP benefits can’t be used for hot, prepared meals—just groceries and cold snacks. But with power outages, hundreds of homes damaged, and almost 20 people dead in the Bluegrass state, the USDA is letting SNAP recipients buy hot meals from participating retailers through July 2.
Why is this a big deal? Imagine trying to cook when your kitchen’s out of commission or your fridge is empty after a blackout. This change means you can get a warm meal without worrying about breaking the rules or stretching your budget even thinner.
Are you in one of the affected counties?
Here’s the full list:
- Adair
- Caldwell
- Calloway
- Casey
- Christian
- Clay
- Clinton
- Crittenden
- Cumberland
- Henderson
- Hopkins
- Jackson
- Knox
- Laurel
- Lincoln
- Lyon
- Marshall
- McCreary
- Pulaski
- Rockcastle
- Russell
- Trigg
- Union
- Wayne
- Webster
- Whitley
Also read: New SNAP eligibility crackdown: Are you at risk of losing your benefits?
If you live in one of these counties and already receive SNAP, you’re automatically eligible for this temporary benefit. Just look for participating stores and ask if they’re part of the program.
New Mexico: Extra Help for Older Adults and People with Disabilities
Meanwhile, in New Mexico, there’s a special boost for SNAP recipients who are over 60 and living with a disability.
If you fit this description, you may have already noticed an extra $68 loaded onto your EBT card this month. This one-time payment was automatically added for nearly 30,000 eligible New Mexicans as of June 3.
Why the extra help? State leaders know that older adults and people with disabilities often face higher food costs and unique challenges.
Also read: Your favorite restaurants could soon accept SNAP benefits—here’s what you need to know!
As Kyra Ochoa from the New Mexico Health Care Authority put it, “Using state general funds to create extra benefits for seniors and people with disabilities is a great example of how strong interdepartmental partnerships can better serve New Mexicans in need.”
Emily Kaltenbach from the Aging and Long-Term Services Department echoed the sentiment, “This boost reflects our shared commitment to ensuring New Mexicans have access to the nutritious food they need.”
What Should You Do Next?
- Kentucky Residents: If you’re in one of the 26 counties listed above, you can use your SNAP benefits for hot meals at participating retailers until July 2. No need to apply—just use your EBT card as usual.
- New Mexico Residents: If you’re over 60 and have a disability, check your EBT balance for the extra $68. If you have questions or didn’t receive the benefit, call the Health Care Authority at 1-800-283-4465.
Have you benefited from these new SNAP expansions? Do you have tips for making the most of your food budget, or questions about how these programs work? Share your experiences and advice in the comments below—your story could help a neighbor in need.
