Oregonians receiving SNAP benefits will have their full November assistance loaded onto their Oregon Trail Cards, announced Governor Tina Kotek. This means families won’t face delays and can shop for groceries without worry.
This decision comes despite a national court dispute over SNAP funding. Recently, the Trump administration requested a federal appeals court to block a judge’s ruling that mandated the distribution of full benefits during the government shutdown.
Bryan Perkins, a resident of Medford, has been watching the case closely. He enrolled in SNAP after being diagnosed with kidney disease, which requires him to undergo dialysis three times a week. His condition makes maintaining his diet crucial.
“I need healthy food to manage my weight,” he said. On Friday morning, after checking his EBT balance frequently, he found his monthly benefit of $298 had been credited just after midnight. He quickly went to Winco, a local grocery store, to stock up on nutritious items.
“I was nervous the funds wouldn’t come through,” he recalled. “I even thought about selling things for food money.” Thankfully, he has received support from neighbors and friends during this challenging time.
Governor Kotek criticized the Trump administration’s move to withhold benefits as unfair. “Families shouldn’t have to struggle while waiting for help they are eligible for,” she stated.
To address immediate food needs, Kotek had declared a hunger emergency and allocated $5 million for emergency food pantries. Additionally, $1 million was directed to tribal governments for assistance.
Even as the court battle continues, Oregon SNAP recipients can still access their benefits. The Oregon Department of Human Services recommends users check their EBT card balances before shopping.
The uncertainty surrounding SNAP is significant, affecting about 1 in 8 Americans. Recent research shows that food assistance programs are crucial, especially during economic downturns, as they not only provide food security but also help stimulate local economies.
Other states, like Wisconsin, have also started to distribute SNAP payments during this tumultuous time. As this situation unfolds, the collective impact on families and communities remains a pressing concern.
For more insights and updates on this matter, you can visit the Oregon Department of Human Services.
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Food Stamps | Oregon
