Latest COVID-19 relief bill increases SNAP benefits for those struggling during pandemic

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — For almost a year, people in Central Florida have been waiting in long lines for a chance at some free food.

Now, Americans are getting more help feeding their families.

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The latest COVID-19 relief bill increases the amount of SNAP benefits for those who qualify for the food assistance program. It adds up to a 15% bump each month through June.

And it couldn’t come soon enough for those in need.

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According to the Department of Children and Families, more than 600,000 Central Floridians used SNAP in 2019. A year later, that number is nearly 200,000 higher, a 27% jump.

Second Harvest said it continues to advocate for additional and long-term changes to the SNAP program.

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Cox Media Group