Lost food in Hurricane Milton? No, FEMA, Red Cross won’t replace it

Hurricanes Helene and Milton are behind Brevard, but the food-related rumors that swirl on social media after every major storm are soon likely to circle the Space Coast and all affected areas in the Sunshine State.

For example: Every hurricane season, often well-meaning people share posts stating that FEMA and the American Red Cross will reimburse anyone who suffered spoiled food due to power outages.

And as always: That’s not true.

While the American Red Cross is providing temporary shelter and food for individuals affected by these storms, in the Carolinas, Georgia and Florida, the agency will not reimburse for groceries. The Red Cross also will not automatically, as is often shared, hand out $100, $200 or $300 vouchers to those reporting food loss.

Same goes for the Federal Emergency Management Agency: According to information available at fema.gov, “food loss is not covered by FEMA’s Individual and Households Program (IHP). Voluntary organizations in the disaster area may be able to help you with food needs.”

It’s a little different for those who receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. The Florida Department of Children and Families has not yet announced guidelines for replacement benefits due to Hurricane Milton losses. That information will be available at myflfamilies.com/milton. The period for applying for assistance to food losses from Hurricane Helene ended Oct. 6.

More:Will I still have running water during the Florida power outages? Should I boil my water? What to know

In Brevard, if you and your family are in need of food or other help, call 211 Brevard for information on local resources.

For information on FEMA assistance, other than food, go to  DisasterAssistance.gov or call 800-621-3362 (FEMA). The toll-free line is open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Amber Olesen is FLORIDA TODAY’s food and dining reporter. Reach her at aolesen@floridatoday.com.