KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — With the federal government shutdown now lifted, some East Tennessee families who rely on SNAP say the relief hasn’t fully reached them yet. Several recipients told 6 News they only saw a partial deposit on their EBT cards and are still waiting to learn when, or if, their full benefits will return.
SNAP recipients said they expected their benefits to go back to normal right away. Instead, many only received a small portion of what they usually rely on, leaving them unsure how long it will take for the rest to come through.
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Donald Hurst, a volunteer and SNAP recipient, said his monthly benefit has dropped sharply over time. “I was getting $483, but then I dropped down to $290 I think, I’m not sure what. And then this stuff happened with the government, and now they’re saying I get 84% on my regular schedule day,” Hurst said.
Hurst said the reduced amount makes it harder to keep up with rent, bills and everyday expenses, especially as prices continue to rise. He said he’s not alone in trying to make partial benefits stretch further than they can.
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Emanuel Bell, a SNAP recipient and food pantry visitor, said his family’s benefits also fell short…