Georgia Seniors Fear Losing SNAP Benefits: What You Need to Know

LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga. – As the November 1 deadline nears for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Georgia seniors are growing increasingly worried.

Due to the government shutdown, funding for SNAP is set to run out on November 1. This leaves over 1 million Georgians, including many vulnerable seniors, without their essential benefits next month. According to Georgia’s Department of Human Services, 28% of SNAP participants are seniors or individuals with disabilities.

Suzie Moore, a retired nurse living on a tight budget, is one of those affected. She relies on just $23 a month from SNAP, which often covers her entire grocery costs. “It’s just not enough,” she shares. “I have to carefully plan what to buy so I don’t touch my fixed income for other bills.”

Like many seniors, Moore is already strategizing for November. While Georgia’s Department of Human Services has confirmed that no new funds will be issued next month, beneficiaries can still spend any remaining balance in their accounts.

Moore is actively searching for food giveaways and shelters to prepare for what may come. “It’s frightening,” she admits. “I worry about how I’ll get by.”

Experts weigh in on this issue, noting the broader implications. Dr. Marsha Johnson, a public health expert, highlights that food insecurity can lead to negative health outcomes, especially for seniors. “Nutrition is vital for maintaining health, particularly for older adults,” she states. “If support systems fail, we could see a rise in health issues, ultimately costing the system more.”

Recent statistics reinforce this concern. A 2022 survey indicated that 40% of seniors in Georgia reported food insecurity at some point. This can lead to increased hospital visits and a decline in overall well-being.

Moore urges lawmakers to consider the impact of their decisions. “If it was your family, what would you do?” she asks. “Think about the people who are going to suffer.”

As the deadline looms, the pressure on policymakers grows. The contrast between past and present is stark; many remember a time when such government support was not a question. The situation today reflects increasing challenges facing not just seniors, but a growing number of Americans struggling to make ends meet.

For more insights on the impact of SNAP and food insecurity, visit the USDA’s Economic Research Service.

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