Wednesday, August 19, 2026

Daily Update on Federal Disaster Response in Northwest Indiana

I am pleased to share that the federal government has extended the deadline for SNAP recipients impacted by the recent severe weather to request emergency replacement benefits. Residents in Lake and Porter Counties affected by recent severe storms and power outages have an extended deadline through August 31, 2026, to request replacement SNAP benefits for spoiled food.  

Households that receive SNAP benefits will need to submit an affidavit detailing food losses for replacement benefits. The affidavit and the FSSA Benefits Portal may be accessed at https://www.in.gov/fssa/dfr/snap-food-assistance/. The affidavit also may be faxed to 888-436-9199 or may be taken to a local FSSA Office. The request must be submitted on or before August 31, 2026.

To find your local FSSA Office: https://www.in.gov/fssa/dfr/ebt-hoosier-works-card/find-my-local-dfr-office/

No family should have to choose between putting food on the table and recovering from a disaster. My commitment to the people of Northwest Indiana remains steadfast, and I will continue doing everything within my ability to ensure our communities have access to the assistance and resources they need to recover and rebuild.

Please contact my Merrillville District Office at 219-795-1844 with any questions or visit my website at mrvan.house.gov.