SNAP Funding Deadline Looms: 42 Million Americans Face Food Crisis

Breaking News: SNAP Funding Deadline Looms, Food Banks Scramble to Prepare The federal government shutdown is set to suspend Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) payments nationwide starting November 1, affecting approximately 42 million people who rely on the program to afford food. The Trump administration has warned that debit-like EBT cards holding individual SNAP funds will not be refilled when the money runs out, despite millions in emergency contingency money being available. The situation is particularly dire in New York, where Governor Kathy Hochul declared a "food emergency" on Thursday, allowing for extra emergency funds and personnel to be deployed. This move will bring in an additional $65 million in emergency food funding and enable CUNY and SUNY students to be deployed across the state to help with food distribution. Volunteers with New York Common Pantry were seen unloading food in New York City on Thursday, as food banks scramble to prepare for the impending crisis. The SNAP funding deadline has been looming since the government shutdown began, with the program's funds set to expire on October 31. However, the administration's decision to suspend payments has left many in the dark about their ability to access food assistance. Food banks and pantries are now racing against the clock to stock up and prepare for the influx of people in need. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, also known as SNAP, provides food assistance to low-income individuals and families. The program is a vital lifeline for many, particularly during times of economic uncertainty. However, the government shutdown has put the program's future in jeopardy, leaving millions of people uncertain about their ability to access food. As the deadline approaches, food banks and pantries are urging the public to donate food and resources to help those in need. The situation is fluid, and the outcome remains uncertain. The federal government is expected to continue negotiations to resolve the shutdown and restore SNAP funding, but for now, food banks are left to scramble and prepare for the worst.