Millions Reliant on Food Assistance Amid Federal Funding Delays, Impacting Vulnerable US Populations

President Donald Trump has agreed to comply with court orders to partially fund the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), a food benefit program with roots dating back to 1939 designed to help Americans purchase food. The program, which has expanded over decades, faces challenges due to the federal government shutdown, causing delays in benefit payments and raising concerns about food insecurity, especially in states like Wisconsin where one in nine residents rely on food stamps. The shutdown has also stalled tax credits under the Affordable Care Act, potentially increasing health insurance costs for many. Meanwhile, reports indicate that non-citizens, including illegal immigrants, utilize SNAP and related programs at higher rates than American citizens, with nearly half of immigrant households with young children relying on these benefits. Food insecurity is rising not only in the U.S. but also in Canada, where food bank visits are increasing across various demographics, underscoring that food assistance programs have become long-term necessities for many families. Experts emphasize that addressing food insecurity requires tackling broader issues like poverty, affordable housing, and social support systems rather than focusing solely on food aid.