Shutdown Crisis: 42 Million Americans Face Loss of Food Stamps (SNAP) by November 1st
The continuing US federal government shutdown is threatening a “hunger catastrophe” for nearly 42 million people across the country.
If Congress fails to pass a funding resolution, money for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, will run out on November 1st.
The Threat to Families
SNAP is a lifeline for people with low-paying jobs, seniors, and people with disabilities. The average participant receives about $187 a month in benefits.
The CEO of Hunger Free America, Joel Berg, warned that if the funds are cut off, the US will see “the greatest hunger catastrophe… since the Great Depression.”
The Department of Agriculture (USDA) has already told state directors to hold payments starting next month, confirming the imminent danger.
The Political Blame Game
The shutdown stems from a fight between Democrats and Republicans over the funding bill.
- Democrats are refusing to pass a funding resolution unless it includes provisions to maintain certain healthcare subsidies under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
- The USDA has blamed Democrats for holding up the process, claiming they are prioritizing healthcare subsidies over food benefits.
However, Democrats argue the administration could use contingency funds to continue paying SNAP benefits immediately, saying failure to do so is a “gross dereliction” of duty.
