SNAP cuts in early November put many families in tight spots. Since the U.S. government shutdown is over as of Nov 13, SNAP funds are in the process of being restored.
The U.S. government shutdown caused SNAP benefits to be on hold for the past two weeks, halting funding for government-wide programs.
As a result, many federal services faced significant cuts, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, which helps families purchase food when they can’t buy groceries on their own.
Pace is hosting a community resource fair on Nov. 18 from 5 to 7 p.m., and all families are invited. Service organizations will be giving away food pantry items, clothing, and other resources. There will be information about food banks.
“All families are welcome, regardless of financial status,” Ms. Barcia, school counselor, said. As a social worker, Ms. Barcia works with students in temporary housing who are also in need of resources like food.
The shutdown threatened the food security of 42 million Americans who rely on SNAP benefits.
SNAP is a vital resource for low-income families, helping them afford groceries. These benefits provide support to families who are already struggling with the high cost of groceries. Families depend on SNAP to put food on the table.
During the shutdown, New York State and many other states across the U.S. said that they would use their state money to supplement missing federal funds. The Trump administration threatened to block access to SNAP. This left many families to worry if they will ever get their SNAP benefits.
In these efforts, many food banks across the country have already started giving out essential food items, but these food banks are faced with a high demand for supply due to the government shutdown.
There is an urge to start these programs because the holiday season is approaching. Unfortunately, when there are breaks, schools are not open. So it’s very important that families are connected to agencies that will support them within their community when school is not in operation.
