SNAP benefits cut off during shutdown, driving long lines at food pantries

Long lines formed at food pantries across the U.S. as federal food benefits, known as SNAP, were cut off due to an ongoing government shutdown. This cutoff left many Americans who rely on the program without their usual financial assistance for food, forcing them to seek help from charitable organizations. In New York's Bronx borough, one food pantry saw approximately 200 more people than usual, with individuals arriving as early as 4 a.m. to access available food items. Volunteers at these pantries, some of whom are also SNAP recipients, expressed concern for families, particularly those with children, and the impact of the benefit disruption. The Department of Agriculture had allocated funds to the food program to continue operations through November, but the timing of reloading debit cards for beneficiaries remained unclear, causing widespread fear and confusion. A U.S. District Judge ordered the government to report back on how it would fund SNAP accounts, either by making a full payment or by utilizing a contingency fund. The delay in SNAP payments, which serves about 42 million people, highlighted the financial vulnerabilities of many Americans. Food pantry staff and volunteers reported seeing a diverse range of people seeking assistance, indicating that... download the app to read more