SNAP recipients are being told to stock up on shelf-stable foods as uncertainty grows over benefits for November.
The Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program, which supports nearly 42 million Americans each month, could see funds run out starting Saturday, November 1, if the government shutdown continues.
“If you have accrued SNAP benefits from previous months on your account, use those funds now to buy shelf-stable foods that can last through November and beyond,” the Arkansas Department of Human Services advised.
Several states are already planning to pause or reduce SNAP payments. Pennsylvania halted benefits as of October 16, stating, “SNAP benefits will not be paid until the federal government shutdown ends and funds are released to PA.”
Texas warned that payments could stop if the closure extends past October 27, while Wisconsin told residents, “Benefits may not be available in November. You may want to use your benefits to stock up on food before the end of October.”
Food banks are raising alarms that they may not have enough supplies to fill the gaps if benefits are delayed. In Massachusetts, officials estimate a potential loss of 56 million meals next month without SNAP funding.
Some states are trying to create temporary solutions. Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin said he would declare a state of emergency to provide food support, and Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry promised to ensure “seniors, individuals with disabilities, and children who rely on food stamps do not go hungry.”
California Governor Gavin Newsom plans to deploy the National Guard to help food banks, while New Hampshire is expanding access to mobile pantries and local food banks.
The USDA previously warned state and regional SNAP directors that there may not be enough funding for full benefits in November if the government shutdown continues, emphasizing that SNAP has never gone dark during a modern shutdown.
Residents are urged to act now, purchasing shelf-stable essentials to prepare for potential delays.
