D-SNAP PROGRAM EXTENDED

News release from the Guam Department of Public Health and Social Services

Under the direction of Governor Lou Leon Guerrero, the Department of Public Health and Social Services (DPHSS) announces a three-day extension for the Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP). The D-SNAP extension will start on Thursday, June 29, 2023, through Saturday, July 1, 2023. This is to accommodate the high volume of D-SNAP applicants.

The extension will be used as make-up days for those who were unable to apply during the original seven-day period. The seven-day period for D-SNAP is a standard duration approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) across the nation during times of crisis. An extension may be granted by the USDA’s Food Nutrition Service (FNS) depending on the volume of demand for D-SNAP.

As of Sunday, June 25, 2023, DPHSS received a total of 12,496 applications, with 96.4% of non-SNAP applicants approved to receive D-SNAP benefits.

All applications must be submitted in person to any one of the three designated enrollment sites. Line cut-off times are subject to the length of the line at each respective location and will be determined on a day-by-day basis.

When applying, residents are encouraged to bring items to help them feel comfortable waiting in line, such as portable chairs, umbrellas, snacks, and drinks. Applicants are also reminded to take their medication.

Immediately following the passage of Typhoon Mawar and during the initial planning for D-SNAP, most Guam residents were without power and had limited access to the internet. In the best interest of the people of Guam, the in-person application process was adopted and implemented. The paper application process for Guam’s D-SNAP program mirrors the process for individuals applying for regular SNAP.

Due to the high volume of D-SNAP applicants, approved D-SNAP applicants may see their benefits within five to seven days.

DPHSS would like to thank the community for their continued support and patience.