Effective Friday, Oct 1st, the monthly benefits for all participants of the American Samoa Nutrition Assistance Program will increase.
Director of Human and Social Services, Muavaefaatasi John Suisala, announced that the increase is made possible through a 23% increase, or $1.86 million hike, in annual nutrition assistance for American Samoa from the US Department of Agricukture, Food and Nutrition Service.
In Fiscal Year 2022, which starts October 1, 2021, American Samoa will receive $10.047 million for the American Samoa Nutrition Assistance Program (ASNAP) compared to $8.185 million for Fiscal Year 2021.
The benefit amounts for ASNAP participants goes into effect with the food stamp coupons for October 2021 for which distribution starts Friday, October 1.
Director Muavaefa’atasi extends his sincere gratitude and profound appreciation to USDA FNS Western Regional Administrator Jesus Mendoza, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Director Charles Tobin, Grants Management and Administrative Services Director Rebecca Hobbs and their colleagues at the national and regional levels for their continued support of the American Samoa Nutrition Assistance Program.
He also extends his fa’amalo and fa’afetai tele to Governor Lemanu P.S. Mauga and Lieutenant Governor Talauega E.V. Ale for their strong support of nutrition assistance programs and services for our people.
The director urges ASNAP participants to spend their benefits wisely to purchase healthy foods for better health outcomes.
