Residents in several New Mexico counties affected by recent flooding will have expanded access to food assistance under a new emergency measure. Effective immediately, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients in Lincoln, Chaves, De Baca, Guadalupe, Otero, Sierra, Socorro, Torrance, Doña Ana and Luna counties are permitted to use their EBT cards to purchase hot, ready-to-eat foods from deli departments at authorized retailers.
This temporary policy is in place through September 30. It aims to support families who may be unable to prepare meals at home due to flood-related damage or displacement.
“Families affected by flooding are still navigating significant challenges,” said Niki Kozlowsi, director for the Income Support Division. “This temporary measure ensures they have access to warm and nutritious meals as they recover.”
The waiver does not extend to restaurants or retailers that are not EBT-authorized. It is intended only for deli departments within stores already participating in the EBT program.
The New Mexico Health Care Authority oversees SNAP and other public assistance programs across the state. The agency also manages Medicaid and behavioral health care services and supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through various community-based programs.
