Additional Coverage:
Government Shutdown Threatens Food Security for Millions as SNAP Benefits Face November Cut-Off
As the government shutdown enters its fourth week, a critical situation is unfolding for millions of low-income Americans who rely on federal food assistance programs. Starting November 1, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are set to dry up, impacting an estimated 42 million Americans across 25 states.
Massachusetts is among the states where SNAP recipients will see their benefits cease. State agencies across the affected regions have begun issuing notices to inform participants of the impending halt to their monthly checks. In addition to SNAP, nearly 7 million Americans receiving assistance from the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) will also experience a gap in benefits.
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healy voiced strong condemnation of the cuts, directly attributing the crisis to President Trump. “President Trump has chosen to stop all SNAP benefits to Americans starting next week,” Governor Healy stated.
“Leadership is a choice, and sadly, President Trump has chosen to take away food from people from all around this country. Let me be clear, this is President Trump’s fault.
This is President Trump’s doing. This is not a Blue State, Red State issue.
This is happening everywhere across the country.”
Approximately one in eight U.S. residents, who receive an average of $187 a month through SNAP for groceries, will be affected. The timing of these cuts is particularly challenging, as grocery prices continue to climb nationwide and the holiday season approaches. This cessation of benefits is expected to place significant additional strain on food banks and pantries already struggling to meet demand.
States confirmed to be ceasing SNAP benefit disbursements in November include California, Arkansas, Hawaii, Indiana, Mississippi, and New Jersey. Warnings have been posted on numerous state websites, alerting recipients to the looming depletion of funds. Multiple state agencies have reported receiving instructions from the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service to suspend benefits until further notice.
With no resolution to the government shutdown in sight, the depletion of these funds will create a dire situation for low-income families dependent on these benefits to feed their households.
Democrats in the U.S. House of Representatives are actively working to secure funding for SNAP during the shutdown.
Typically requiring $8 billion for monthly funding, 211 House Democrats urged the U.S. Agriculture Department on Friday to utilize a $5 billion contingency reserve to cover November’s SNAP payments.
In a letter to the USDA, the Democrats stated, “There are clear steps the administration can and must take immediately to ensure that millions of families across the country can put food on their table in November.” The letter further emphasized, “Choosing not to ensure SNAP benefits reach those in need this November would be a gross dereliction of your responsibilities to the American people.”
A 2025 Feeding America study highlights the severity of food insecurity nationwide, revealing that over 20% of children are experiencing it, with a staggering 85% of affected counties located in rural areas. The impending cuts to SNAP benefits will undoubtedly exacerbate this already critical issue.