FYI: All food stamp recipients who lost food during last week’s blackout can apply for emergency assistance to replace that food, but must do so within ten days of the loss. Federal rules allow for the emergency aid when food purchased with food stamps is destroyed due to a “household disaster,” and New York State sent notification on Friday to local programs letting them know that the blackout qualifies. A Human Resources Administration spokesperson said New York City food stamp recipients may go to any of HRA’s food stamp offices and neighborhood job centers to apply, and they will get 50 percent of their monthly allowance in emergency aid. The state’s notification also authorized local agencies to provide Emergency Temporary Assistance to low-income individuals and families who don’t qualify for food stamps but are “in an immediate need situation.” HRA could not immediately provide details on the qualifications for that aid. [8/19/03]