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SNAP Food Benefits to Increase
Local
Written by Natassia Finley   

 

Recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formally known as food stamps, will see an increase in their monthly allotment. The

increase will take effect once a portion of President Obama's federal stimulus package goes into affect in April.

   

An increase in benefits couldn't have come at a better time for this mom of two little ones.

"Lately I've noticed food prices are going up," Geneva Canales said.

The average benefit going out to qualified Texans is $276 a month. But with the stimulus, it will increase that by $38. Now each recipient's benefits are based on their needs, but overall, the additional amount tacked on is right at 13. 6%.  It may not sound like much, but when you're feeding a two year old and a 9 month old, Canales says every little bit helps.

"A can of formula that costs $13.99 only last 4 days, so that's two or three cans of formula you can get a month," Canales said.

She says food prices are continually rising...but her pay...it's staying the same and she believes the additional aid given to her by the government will help to make up the difference.