ATLANTA — Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp says thousands of people across the state have applied for SNAP benefits following the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic.
During a press conference late Monday afternoon, Kemp announced a statewide “shelter in place” order for the medically fragile and the most at risk.
The order covers those living in long-term care facilities, undergoing cancer treatments, those who already have received a positive COVID-19 diagnosis and those who are suspected of having the virus due to their symptoms or who have been exposed to someone with COVID-19.
Kemp's order also banned any gathering of more than 10 people and ordered the closure of all bars and nightclubs in the state.
As more people are staying at home, hundreds are leaving their jobs behind.
Over the past few weeks, Kemp said the state has seen a large increase in the number of applications for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP.
Last week alone, Kemp said the state's Division of Family and Children Services received nearly 12,000 online applications -- up from 6,400 online applications two weeks ago.
"Without question, families are facing hardship in this time of need," Kemp said.
As a result, Kemp said state officials are working to allow families who participate in SNAP to access the maximum benefit amount for March and April.
Right now, according to the state, the average monthly SNAP benefit per Georgia household is $225. With this expansion, Kemp said about 1 million Georgians should expect to see an additional $100 in nutrition benefits.
"This change could be a major support to senior citizens in our state, who typically receive about $15 in SNAP benefits each month. This supplement will allow them to get the maximum benefit amount for their household size, which is $194 for a household of one," Kemp said.
While March benefits have already been issued, Kemp said the supplement will come in a second allotment at the end of the month. The supplement will be included as part of the regular monthly benefit in April, Kemp said.
Kemp revealed that he and 21 other state governors have also sent a letter for new grant funding for states to fight COVID-19 to Senate majority leader Mitch McConnell and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
11Alive is focusing our news coverage on the facts and not the fear around the virus. We want to keep you informed about the latest developments while ensuring that we deliver confirmed, factual information.
We will track the most important coronavirus elements relating to Georgia on this page. Refresh often for new information.
MORE CORONAVIRUS HEADLINES