PIERRE, S.D. (DRG News) – Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, increased Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits are continuing this month and next month for some South Dakota families.

State Department of Social Services Secretary Laurie Gill says SNAP benefits give a much-needed boost to those who may be struggling with food costs.

SNAP recipients who already receive the benefit maximum will see no change. Increased benefits will be automatically loaded onto SNAP recipients’ EBT cards, so no action is needed. Eligible recipients will receive a notice indicating the amount of their additional benefit and will receive the funds June 22 and July 24. This is in addition to regular monthly SNAP benefits which will continue to be issued on the 10th of each month.