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KSMU is dedicated to broadcasting critically important information as our community experiences the COVID-19 pandemic. Below, you'll find our ongoing coverage.

Changes For Food Stamp Recipients Are Designed To Get Them Through The Pandemic

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Missourians who receive Food Stamps and whose certifications are due in March, April or May, will have their benefits extended.

The Department of Social Services has been granted a waiver from the United States Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service to extend SNAP certification periods by six months.  That will prevent Food Stamp benefits from ending during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to DSS.

The department is also waiving all work requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents through the end of the federal emergency COVID-19 declaration.

In addition the state will issue Pandemic Food Stamp/SNAP benefits.  All households currently eligible for SNAP will receive the maximum amount for the household size.  The P-SNAP benefit increase will automatically be added on the normal date the recipient receives their SNAP benefit for the month of April, according to MODHSS. The increase will affect 310,000 Missouri households.

And Missouri families with kids on free and reduced lunch and whose schools are closed for five consecutive days will get a Pandemic EBT card for March, April and May.  It will be the value of the meals they will have missed.

Low-income individuals or families who need Food Stamp or other benefits should contact the Family Support Division for help.  Missourians can apply for services 24/7 online by visiting MyDSS.mo.gov or by sending completed applications and verification documents by email to FSD.Documents@dss.mo.gov or by fax to 573-526-9400. Missourians can also apply for Family Medicaid over the phone by calling 1-855-373-9994 during business hours Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Michele Skalicky has worked at KSMU since the station occupied the old white house at National and Grand. She enjoys working on both the announcing side and in news and has been the recipient of statewide and national awards for news reporting. She likes to tell stories that make a difference. Michele enjoys outdoor activities, including hiking, camping and leisurely kayaking.