COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) -Emergency assistance will be provided to families amid uncertainty of SNAP/EBT benefits in connection to the ongoing federal government shutdown, the Broad River Business Alliance said on Thursday.
They said that the South Carolina Department of Social Services confirmed benefits would be issued for this month, funding for future months currently remains uncertain.
Over 23,000 residents in Richland County could be affected, including students and seniors who “share households and rely on the benefits to survive,” according to the Broad River Business Alliance.
The emergency line will be opened to:
- Individuals who have received SNAP/EBT cut-off notices
- Elderly and disabled residents who depend on public
- Families enrolled in TANF and WIC programs
- Military Families and Federal Employees that have been furloughed or laid off
- Families living at or below the federal poverty line
You can reach them by calling (803) 939-6544.
You can call now to get in the queue, but live operators will only begin calls on Nov. 1.
People will be accommodated on a first-come, first-serve basis.
The organization also issued a call to action for the community amid the ongoing shutdown.
“We are calling on our neighbors, businesses, and community organizations to stand with us once again. Together, we can ensure that every family in Richland County has food on the table this holiday season.”
Here’s how you can help:
- Volunteer to help pack and distribute emergency kits
- Sponsor a family or organize a drive through your business or congregation
- Spread the word about the Community Emergency Response Hotline
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