Only Three Sites Will Be Accepting DSNAP Applications Moving Forward

The Department of Human Services announced late Wednesday that Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (DSNAP) sites have been consolidated throughout the territory, a move that dwindled the amount of sites down to three.

“After careful review of our operations, the Department of Human Services will begin adjusting components of the program to improve overall efficiency,” said Felecia Blyden, D.H.S. commissioner.

Beginning today through Saturday, which is the last day for residents to apply for DSNAP, the site on St. Croix will be at the D.H.S. Mars Hill offices in Frederiksted; on St. Thomas, it will be the Tutu Park Mall; and on St. John, it will be at the D.H.S. Multipurpose Center. The times of site operations will remain from 7:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. through Friday. However, on Saturday, site times will be from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Ms. Blyden said during a press briefing held by Acting Governor Osbert Potter on Wednesday, that residents should attempt to visit the application centers between today and Friday, because on Saturday, while the sites will be accepting applications, the goal is to activate as many DSNAP cards as possible.

D.H.S. said that as of Wednesday, it had processed a total of 15,157 DSNAP applications, with 13,670 receiving benefits while and 1,487 were deemed ineligible. And while the sites have been consolidated, the department encouraged residents to continue applying. Applicants experiencing issues with the card, or in need of other assistance, should call340-715-4960.

“We continue to maintain that the feeding needs of residents must be met. It is the underlying goal of DSNAP and it is also our priority,” Ms. Blyden said.

The commissioner revealed during the press briefing, held at the West Indian Company in St. Thomas, that D.H.S. has been experiencing difficult with connectivity, which has led to other issues such as longer-than-expected wait times for cards to reflect benefits.

Below, some important details about the DSNAP benefits:

• Applicants can access their benefits by using (866)884-2868
• Benefits are available for 1 year from the date of issuance
• No replacement of cards issued for the Disaster Benefits
• EBT cards can be used at authorized USDA Retailer nationwide. Look for Quest logo
• DSNAP can only be used to purchase food products and for plants and seeds to grow for households to eat