Government Shutdown Halts SNAP Benefits for 42 Million Across US

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) faces a critical funding shortfall due to the ongoing federal government shutdown, threatening the November benefits for millions nationwide, including over 600,000 Coloradans. Colorado Governor Polis highlighted the impossibility for the state to cover the $120 million monthly federal cost, urging affected residents to seek local food bank support amid the crisis. Nationally, the USDA stated that SNAP funds would be depleted soon, leaving 42 million Americans at risk of losing food assistance just before the holiday season, a situation described as potentially causing a "No Meal November." In response, Colorado has recently expanded SNAP to include a $60 monthly bonus for fresh produce purchases, aiming to improve nutrition for low-income families, but this initiative is jeopardized by the funding halt. Meanwhile, social media platforms like TikTok have become informal hubs for sharing affordable meal ideas as families brace for the loss of SNAP aid. Food banks across affected states anticipate increased demand and call for community donations to offset the gap created by the halted federal assistance.