FoodShare Replacement Benefits Available for Residents Affected by August Power Outage
MILWAUKEE, WI – The recovery efforts from devastating August thunderstorms and power outages continue as Milwaukee County and the Hunger Task Force work together to spread the word about FoodShare Replacement Benefits. Residents who receive FoodShare benefits could receive replacement benefits if food purchased with FoodShare was lost during power outages earlier this month.
“Many families in Milwaukee County were dramatically impacted by the recent, massive power outage, which in some cases lasted for days,” said Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley. “With approximately 1 in 5 Milwaukee County residents receiving FoodShare, we want to ensure all eligible residents are aware of the Replacement Benefits.”
Families impacted by the power outages have until August 31, 2021, to submit their Request for Replacement Benefits. The Replacement Benefit Request Form must be accompanied by a letter from WE Energies that confirms the power outage. Typically, these types of Replacement Benefits are available for only 10 days after a power outage, but the USDA has extended that deadline until August 31, 2021. The Replacement Benefits and supporting letter from WE Energies can be submitted online, in person, via fax, or email. (NOTE: Given the extension of this timeline, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) will not be accepting any applications for Replacement Benefits submitted after August 31, 2021).
For more information on the FoodShare Replacement Benefits, contact the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) Milwaukee Enrollment Services (MilES) at 1-888-947-6583 or in-person at the Coggs Human Services building, located at 1220 W. Vliet Street, during business hours Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9 AM – 1 PM and Thursday from 12-4 PM.
Additionally, assistance is available with submitting an application for Replacement Benefits, through the Hunger Task Force at the following locations:
Hunger Task Force Self-Service Centers
Robles Self-Service Center
723 W. Mitchell Street
Phone: 414-238-6484
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00a.m.-4:30p.m.
Spanish language assistance available
Alicia’s Place FoodShare Resource Center
4144 N. 56th Street @ Midtown Center
Phone: 414-988-6501
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00a.m.-4:30p.m.
Hmong, Lao, and Thai language assistance available