Governor Unveils $4 Million Funding Boost for Minnesota Food Shelves as Federal Grocery Aid Faces Uncertainty

(KNSI) — Governor Tim Walz has announced $4 million in state funding for food shelves in Minnesota, available right away. This support comes as an estimated 440,000 residents will soon lose their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP) benefits. These cuts are linked to the ongoing federal government shutdown.

“Food shelves are a lifeline for many families. While federal support may fall short, Minnesota is stepping up,” Governor Walz stated. About 36% of SNAP and MFIP beneficiaries are children, and 18% are seniors, highlighting the programs’ importance across all 87 counties and Tribal Nations in the state.

The Minnesota Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) reports that roughly 300 food shelves and Tribal Nations will receive this emergency funding. In the past year, food shelves saw nearly 9 million visits, a significant increase from 3.8 million visits in 2021.

“This funding is crucial, but it can’t replace the lost SNAP and MFIP benefits,” said DCYF Commissioner Tikki Brown. “When food assistance goes away, the effects can be swift and severe. It touches public health, local economies, education, and job stability.”

Most of the funding will be directed toward purchasing food, in line with the Minnesota Food Shelf Program guidelines. Residents with unspent funds on their EBT cards can continue to buy eligible food items after November 1st.

Recent statistics show that food insecurity is a growing concern. According to a 2023 survey by Feeding America, around 34 million people in the U.S. are experiencing food insecurity, with alarming rates among families with children. Immediate state action, like Minnesota’s, is essential in addressing these issues.

For anyone looking to support this cause, reaching out to local food shelves for donations can make a significant difference.

For more information about food assistance programs, you can visit the Minnesota Department of Human Services.

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