How the Government Shutdown Affects SNAP Benefits: What Local Food Shelves Fear for the Future

The Minnesota Department of Children, Youth, and Families has announced that they must halt the processing of food stamp applications due to the ongoing government shutdown. This decision affects over 440,000 Minnesotans who rely on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.

Families like Markita Banks’ in Minneapolis are facing tough choices. “I don’t know what I would do if there wasn’t a food shelf or SNAP,” she shared, highlighting the desperation many are feeling. According to Sharon Abel, executive director of the Groveland Emergency Food Shelf, the situation has changed dramatically since March 2025. “We’ve seen people come here who never thought they would need help,” she noted.

Located in Minneapolis’ Stevens Square neighborhood, Groveland is serving 200 individuals daily in a short two-hour window. An extended government shutdown could further strain their resources. “We’re working hard to stay ahead of what’s next,” Abel added.

Earlier this week, state officials warned that if the shutdown continues into November, there won’t be enough funds to cover SNAP benefits. The USDA is urging states to delay any transactions related to EBT. This might also affect those relying on the Minnesota Family Investment Program.

Zach Rodvold from Second Harvest Heartland emphasized the importance of SNAP in combating hunger. “The government plays a crucial role in hunger relief, and outreach for SNAP is central to our mission,” he said.

On October 21, state leaders will notify recipients about the possibility of losing November benefits if the shutdown persists. If it extends into November, new or reinstated SNAP cases won’t be processed.

The Minnesota Department of Children, Youth, and Families plans to keep recipients informed through electronic channels and social media. Meanwhile, those looking to support their community can consider donating to local food shelves like Groveland.

In response to the growing need, food banks across the country are also feeling the strain. In recent surveys, it was reported that food insecurity has risen by 50% since the last economic slump, underscoring the importance of programs like SNAP in these challenging times. You can check the latest insights and data on food insecurity from trusted sources like Feeding America.

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Food Insecurity, Politics, Food Stamps, Food Banks, Government Shutdown