FNS Documents & Resources

WIC is not designed to be a disaster assistance program, and is, therefore, not considered a first response option for disaster survivors. WIC policies allow state agencies flexibility in program design and administration to support continuation of benefits to participants during times of natural or other disasters. WIC state agencies are encouraged to work with state and local emergency services offices, as well as FEMA, to assist participants during a disaster.

Through the Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, FNS is able to quickly offer short-term food assistance benefits to families suffering in the wake of a disaster.

Natural disasters, such as hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods, can be devastating to communities and require a quick response. Schools, child care centers, and summer sites that operate the National School Lunch and School Breakfast programs, the Child and Adult Care Food Program, or the Summer Food Service Program can help minimize disruptions to your family.

SNAP retailers are required to keep certain staple food items in stock at all times. This retailer reminder details the dairy stocking requirements for SNAP retailers. 

Los minoristas SNAP están obligados a mantener en existencia ciertos alimentos básicos en todo momento. Asegúrese de cumplir con los requisitos de existencias ANTES de solicitar la autorización SNAP. 

FNS plays a vital role in providing supplemental nutrition assistance when disasters occur by coordinating with state, local, and voluntary organizations to: (1) provide food for shelters and other mass feeding sites, (2) distribute food packages directly to households in specific situations, (3) offer flexibility in nutrition assistance programs’ design and administration to continue providing benefits to participants in need, and (4) approve eligible states’ requests to operate a Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.