SNAP Pause Strains Food Banks, Pantries

Federal SNAP funding is expected to lapse Nov. 1 as the government shutdown continues, putting FoodShare benefits for nearly 700,000 Wisconsinites and about 267,000 Iowans — including more than 4,000 residents in Dallas County, Iowa — at risk. Local food banks, pantries and community programs from Wisconsin’s Fox Valley and Oconto County to central Iowa, north Alabama and northwest Arkansas are publishing resource lists and expanding services (community fridges, library freezers, holiday boxes, free meals and transit to meal sites) to fill the gap. Pantries report sharp spikes in demand and dwindling reserves — Feeding Madison County served over 250 families in one day and said supplies are nearly depleted — and Salvation Army officials warned thousands in some counties may seek assistance. Benefit recipients can use any remaining FoodShare balances through November, but no new benefits will be issued until the shutdown ends. Officials and regional food-bank leaders caution that emergency food networks were not designed to replace SNAP and are urging donations and volunteers as communities coordinate drives, expanded pantry hours, delivery and outreach to help newly food-insecure residents, including furloughed government workers.