The After-Effects of the Shutdown: Food Assistance Delays Ripple Through New York and Roosevelt Island By Ericka O’Connell, Roosevelt Island Daily
When the Senate voted this week to move closer to ending the government shutdown, many hoped relief was finally on the way. But for families across New York — and here on Roosevelt Island — the damage has already been done.
As our community knows from the last few weeks, the shutdown didn’t just close federal offices or delay paychecks. It disrupted one of the most essential safety nets for thousands of New Yorkers: the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
A Continuing Struggle for Families
Since November 1, SNAP benefits have been delayed or reduced for millions. According to Congressman Jerry Nadler, the federal government has yet to fully fund the November round of benefits, despite a court ruling requiring continued payments during the shutdown…