Millions Lose SNAP Benefits After USDA Suspension

The USDA suspended SNAP benefits beginning Nov. 1 due to the federal government shutdown, leaving millions without monthly food assistance and prompting legal challenges and some court orders for emergency funding. State officials warn of large impacts in multiple states — about 556,000 people in South Carolina (roughly $104 million), nearly 900,000 families in Arizona, roughly 750,000 in Alabama, about 700,000 in Tennessee, and hundreds of thousands of older adults in South Florida. Food banks, churches and soup kitchens report surging lines, donation shortages and operational strain, relocating warehouses and running emergency drives as nonprofits and local health centers mobilize to help vulnerable seniors, families with children, people with disabilities and those needing medicine. The USDA initially declined to tap contingency funds, prompting states and advocates to contest the decision in court while some states provide limited emergency aid and community groups urge donations as uncertainty continues about when benefits will resume.