In response to the severe ice storm that hit much of New York this weekend, the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) wants to inform Food Stamp recipients who lost food due to ice-related power outages that they may be eligible for replacement benefits.

"The unexpected loss of groceries for families that rely on a monthly allocation of Food Stamp benefits to make ends meet can be a devastating experience," said David Hansell, Acting Commissioner of the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA). "We want to make sure that such families are aware that they can apply for replacement benefits this month."

Under United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) guidelines, Food Stamp households that lost power for more than four consecutive hours can be issued benefits to replace spoiled food that was purchased with Food Stamp benefits. Losses must be reported within ten (10) days of the incident and the value of the replacement benefit can not exceed the households most recent Food Stamp benefit.

Due to the severity of the storm, thousands of New York households experienced a loss of power and a possible loss of food. In many areas it is still not clear when power will be restored.

Food Stamp recipients interested in applying for replacement benefits should call or visit their county Department of Social Services office to find out hot to apply The required form, "LDSS 2291 - Request for Replacement of Food Purchased with Food Stamp Benefits," can also be downloaded here in English and Spanish: Request For Repleacement of Food Form