Ten counties gain temporary hot food access via EBT   

SANTA FE – Effective immediately, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) customers in Lincoln, Chaves, De Baca, Guadalupe, Otero, Sierra, Socorro, Torrance, Doña Ana and Luna counties can temporarily use their EBT cards to buy hot, ready-to-eat foods from deli departments at authorized retailers. 

This emergency measure remains in effect through September 30.   

“Families affected by flooding are still navigating significant challenges,” said Niki Kozlowsi, director for the Income Support Division. “This temporary measure ensures they have access to warm and nutritious meals as they recover.” 

The emergency hot food waiver allows families affected by recent floodings to access hot meals if they are unable to prepare food at home due to damage or displacement. This temporary benefit helps ease the burden on affected households during this difficult time. The waiver applies only to deli departments at EBT-authorized retailers and does not include restaurants or non-EBT-authorized retailers. 

### 

About the New Mexico Health Care Authority
The New Mexico Health Care Authority connects New Mexicans to the care and support they need to live healthy, full lives. The agency administers Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), cash assistance, child support services, and behavioral health care across the state. HCA also oversees the State Health Benefits program for state employees and manages the Health Care Affordability Fund to help make coverage more affordable for working families. The agency licenses health care facilities, investigates complaints, and ensures providers deliver safe, high-quality care. In addition, HCA supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through a variety of home and community-based programs that protect health, safety, and human rights.