EL PASO, TX, November 10, 2025 – The federal shutdown has created a critical situation in El Paso. City officials are worried that food supplies for low-income residents could run out in just weeks.
The city was already grappling with food insecurity. A 2017 report showed that over 160,000 people in El Paso live in areas with limited access to supermarkets. More than 52,000 of those are children. This situation is alarming, especially when you consider that 10% of residents often worry about running out of money for food. Nationally, that number is only 4%. The report also noted that 8% of El Pasoans frequently experience food shortages, compared to 3% nationally.
Despite the critical need, participation in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is low. The report estimated that eligible residents leave about $91 million in benefits unused each year. This lack of participation affects not just the families but the local economy, as these funds would support local grocery stores.
Barriers to joining SNAP include a complicated application process and social stigma. Currently, about 76% of eligible people in El Paso participate, while the national average is 83%. Texas is lower, at just 66%.
Recent studies, such as one from UTEP, suggest that around 306,500 people in El Paso face some form of food insecurity. This includes military families at Ft. Bliss, who are now struggling financially due to the shutdown. The El Pasoans Fighting Hunger Food Bank has had to allocate around 1,500 food boxes to support these families.
County Commissioner David Stout warned that the situation could worsen, with food resources potentially running out by Thanksgiving. Authorities were reminded of the grim reality: without immediate action, many will go hungry.
In a twist, a federal judge recently ordered the return of emergency SNAP benefits, but only at reduced levels. The USDA initially planned to restore full benefits, but after a Supreme Court ruling paused this order, most recipients will only receive partial benefits this month. New applicants are completely left out of assistance.
Residents waiting for their SNAP benefits are anxious. Many expected their aid last week, but delays have left them uncertain about when support will come. The Texas Health and Human Services Department suggests checking their website for updates, but specifics remain unclear.
This is a developing story, and as the situation evolves, it is crucial to stay informed. El Pasoans are facing a difficult period, and community support will be critical.
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David Stout,El Pasoans Fighting Hunger Food Bank,federal government shutdown,food insecurity,Fort Bliss,Lonestar Card,Paso del Norte Institute for Health Living,Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP),Texas Health and Human Services,Thomas Fullerton,University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP)
