DCF Disaster Food Stamp Update 7.21.05

The Department of Children and Families, in partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, has launched a Disaster Food Stamp (DFS) Program in Escambia, Okaloosa and Santa Rosa counties to help the victims of Hurricane Dennis. The Department began accepting applications for the program on Tuesday.

"The Department is working day and night to get food into the hands of those who need it most," DCF Secretary Lucy Hadi said.

As of noon today DCF reports the following numbers of preliminary approvals of applications:

• Escambia County: 13,395
• Okaloosa County: 2,708
• Santa Rosa County: 6,385
• Total: 22,488

* All figures are cumulative since July 26

Preliminary approvals are forwarded to processing centers where the applications are more closely examined to determine whether they meet eligibility requirements for the program. Individuals determined to be eligible for the program are then mailed Electronic Benefit Transfer cards, similar to ATM cards, that can be used at USDA-approved food retailers.

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