TO:	Local District Commissioners; TA Directors; FS Directors

FROM:	Rus Sykes, Deputy Commissioner
	Division of Employment and Transitional Supports

SUBJECT:	 Food Stamp Disaster Plan Local Contacts

EFFECTIVE DATE:	Immediately

CONTACT PERSON:	David Staszak at 1-800-343-8859 x 3-6354

It is critical that New York State be prepared to act quickly and efficiently to a need for emergency food stamp issuance in response to disaster.  The 9/11 tragedy as well as several other disasters stand as stark reminders not only of the importance of emergency preparedness but of the need for cooperation among federal, state, and local agencies to address the needs of disaster victims.  To that end, it is imperative that we have up-to-date information on your district’s Food Stamp contact in the event of a declared disaster.  This will enable us to provide you with immediate program support and information during an emergency. Since contact numbers must be operational on a 24-hour basis, many districts choose to designate either their disaster operations center or the county sheriff’s office.

To ensure that your county information is included in the State Food Stamp Disaster Plan we file with the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the State Emergency Management Office, please send the appropriate contact and phone number to OTDA by Friday, August 12, 2005.  Information should be sent via e-mail to   dave.staszak@otda.state.ny.us or by calling David Staszak at the number listed above.  This request for update is sent to all districts each year.  Thank you for your help.  Your prompt response is essential.