SNAP Benefit Delays Strain Food Banks Across Multiple U.S. States

Food banks across several U.S. states are facing surging demand as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits have been disrupted due to government shutdown-related delays. In New Jersey, the Food Brigade has seen more than a 100% increase in new applications, reflecting widespread food insecurity. Similarly, food pantries in Rochester, New York, report doubling or more in the number of families they serve, leading to rapidly depleting food supplies and the need to ration resources. Vermont's food banks are also strained, as partial SNAP payments are being issued following federal court rulings, but uncertainty remains due to federal funding gaps and political gridlock. In Louisville, Kentucky, overwhelmed systems for distributing assistance like Kroger gift cards have left many SNAP recipients frustrated and forced to rely on multiple food banks. Pennsylvania officials have allocated state and private funds to support food banks but acknowledge ongoing uncertainty about federal SNAP payments, emphasizing that many SNAP recipients are working adults who depend critically on these benefits. Across these regions, food banks are urging for donations and volunteer support to manage the increased demand amid ongoing SNAP program challenges.