As the federal government shutdown drags on, millions of Americans have lost access to food assistance starting last Saturday. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which provides grocery assistance to low-income families, depends on funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which has halted operations during the shutdown. The prolonged closure has already created uncertainty for millions of households that rely on these monthly benefits to afford basic groceries and household staples.
According to the latest USDA data, nearly 42 million people—and more than 22 million households—received food stamps in May, highlighting the gravity of the situation. This number underscores just how widespread the program’s reach is, and how devastating even a short interruption in aid could be for vulnerable communities.
Recently, the USDA posted a notice on its website stating that no federal food-aid benefits will be issued on Nov. 1, unless funding is restored. The announcement has raised nationwide concern among both recipients and state agencies that manage the program’s distribution.
“The new notice comes after the Trump administration said it would not tap roughly $5 billion in contingency funds to keep benefits through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, commonly referred to as SNAP, flowing into November,” CBS News reported.
“Bottom line, the well has run dry,” the USDA notice says. “At this time, there will be no benefits issued Nov. 1.” The stark language reflects the growing urgency within federal agencies as the shutdown continues with no resolution in sight.
Additionally, several states have issued warnings that they may pause or delay issuing November benefits until federal funding resumes. Local administrators have urged recipients to plan cautiously and monitor official updates, emphasizing that states are unable to release federal funds without congressional approval.
On a more positive note, the local government is making efforts to help Washingtonians. In fact, Gov. Ferguson has been guiding the shift of more than $2 million per week from the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services to the Washington State Department of Agriculture, which grants funds directly to food banks. The first transfer was made last Sunday, continuing each week until the shutdown ends and SNAP funding is restored.
