Millions of families at risk as government shutdown impacts SNAP funding

Some states have warned that families who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, may soon miss out on benefits due to the federal government shutdown.

“Starting October 16, SNAP benefits will not be paid until the federal government shutdown ends and funds are released to PA,” according to a notice on Pennsylvania’s state website dated Oct. 17. The Texas Health and Human Services site notes, “SNAP benefits for November won’t be issued if the federal government shutdown continues past Oct. 27.”

Nevada, North Dakota, New Jersey and New York, among others, have issued similar announcements about potential delays or missed benefits.

A pop-up notice on New Jersey’s Department of Human Services site also noted that “it is unclear if SNAP benefits loaded on your Families First EBT card prior to October 31, 2025 will be able to be used after November 1, 2025.”

The SNAP program, formerly known as food stamps, is run by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and provides basic assistance to more than 40 million people. For families in need, local food banks are often the next line of defense. However, these nonprofits are also under pressure as federal funding remains on hold. For those families already stretched too thin, experts say, the gap could cause significant hardship.

The USDA did not immediately return a request for comment.

Original Article: https://bit.ly/3L56YnA