The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has instructed the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) to suspend all November Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. This action is due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. As a result, more than 33,000 households in Cumberland County who use SNAP will not receive November benefits unless the USDA changes its directive. October benefits have already been distributed and can still be used at authorized retailers in North Carolina.
Residents can continue to use their current SNAP benefits and check their EBT balances through the EBT Edge app or by calling the number on the back of their card. The Cumberland County Department of Social Services (DSS) remains open. It is still processing new applications, recertifications, and change reports. Residents may apply for assistance online or in person at the DSS office on Ramsey Street in Fayetteville…