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SNAP benefits extended

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AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott today announced that the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) will provide approximately $204 million in emergency Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) food benefits for the month of January as the state continues its response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Recipients will also see an additional 15 percent increase in their total benefits in January due to recently passed federal legislation.  
“Thank you to the U.S. Department of Agriculture for extending these benefits and increasing the amount of benefits that Texas families will receive,” said Governor Abbott. “These emergency SNAP benefits continue to help put food on the table for many Texas families throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.”   “As we continue through the new year, these benefits offer nutritious food to those who need it most, especially in these trying times,” said Texas HHS Access and Eligibility Services Deputy Executive Commissioner Wayne Salter.  
HHSC received federal approval from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to extend the maximum, allowable amount of SNAP benefits to recipients based on family size. The emergency January allotments are in addition to the almost $2 billion in benefits previously provided to Texans between April and December.    
Beginning in January, recipients will receive a 15 percent increase in their total benefits, which will continue monthly until June 2021. The additional 15 percent increase and the emergency allotment amount should appear in recipients’ accounts by Jan. 23. Administered by HHSC, SNAP is a federal program that provides food assistance to approximately 1.7 million eligible low-income families and individuals in Texas.   Texans in need can apply for benefits, including SNAP and Medicaid, at YourTexasBenefits.com or use the Your Texas Benefits mobile app to manage their benefits.
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Governor announces new crisis support line for those affected by the flooding

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Governor Greg Abbott today announced that the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) launched the Texas Flooding Emotional Support Line, a new statewide crisis support line for Texans impacted by recent catastrophic floods. The crisis support line is available 24/7 and provides professional crisis counseling at no cost. “The State of Texas continues working to ensure that Texans hardest hit by these devastating floods have the resources and support they need, and that includes mental health support,” said Governor Abbott. “This new statewide crisis support line will ensure survivors, families, and first responders have access to emotional support and crisis counseling as they work to heal and recover. Cecilia and I continue to pray that God brings comfort to everyone affected and strength to our first responders as they deal with the unimaginable.” Survivors, families, first responders, and others affected by the disaster can receive professional crisis counseling at no cost by calling 833-812-2480. All calls are confidential and answered by personnel specially trained to work with disaster survivors. “The physical and emotional effects from a natural disaster are profound, and can have lasting effects on hearts, minds and communities,” said Michelle Alletto, HHSC chief program and services officer. “Dedicated mental health support is available to help our fellow Texans cope with loss, rebuild and heal.”   Through crisis counseling, Texans can receive emotional support and get assistance with reviewing their disaster recovery options and referrals to other programs. Crisis counseling also promotes positive coping strategies and helps prevent additional stress for those affected by disaster. For more information on mental health resources available to Texans, visit the Disaster Behavioral Health Services page.
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Congressional staff to visit Nocona

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The staff of the Office of Congressman Ronny Jackson (TX-13) announced upcoming mobile office hours for July in regional towns including Nocona.
Constituents are encouraged to attend if they need assistance with a federal agency or to learn more about the office’s services.
Bring all documentation if you require assistance with a federal agency case. No appointment is necessary. Additional questions should be directed to Congressman Jackson’s Amarillo office at (806) 641-5600.
In Montague County the office staff will be set up from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on July 14 in Nocona City Hall, 102 Clay Street.

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Budget offers, election called for Nov. 4

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The Bowie City Council conducted a relatively brief meeting Tuesday night where the budget proposal was presented and the election for November was called.
The agenda opened with a public hearing on the 2024 annual Drinking Water Quality Consumer Confidence Report. City Manager Bert Cunningham touched on the highlights of the report which is available to the public on the city’s website.
He reported there were no violations or issues and the city’s water system continues to operate within all parameters. Water loss was at 41,402,247 gallons, which often stems from leaks or breaks. No action is required by the council.

Read the full story in the Thursday Bowie News.

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