Atlanta Suspends Water Shutoffs, Evictions Amid SNAP Funding Crisis

Amid the ongoing federal government shutdown and the potential lapse of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, several U.S. cities have taken measures to mitigate hardships for residents. Tucson Water has suspended residential water shutoffs due to nonpayment until the shutdown ends, ensuring families maintain access to essential water services. Similarly, Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens launched ATL CARES, a comprehensive initiative including moratoriums on water shutoffs and residential evictions in city-affiliated housing through early 2026 or until the shutdown concludes. The initiative also coordinates with local organizations like the Atlanta Community Food Bank and Goodr to distribute millions of pounds of emergency food to residents facing food insecurity. These actions reflect coordinated municipal responses to support vulnerable populations during federal funding uncertainties, emphasizing that no resident should go hungry or lose critical housing and utility services due to governmental impasses. Meanwhile, in Manitou Springs, Colorado, a temporary water service shutoff was scheduled for a neighborhood to address a leak, unrelated to federal funding issues but highlighting ongoing infrastructure maintenance challenges.