Government Shutdown Delays CalFresh SNAP Benefits, Food Banks Nationwide Brace for Surging Demand

The ongoing federal government shutdown is delaying the distribution of November CalFresh and SNAP benefits, leading to increased demand at food banks across multiple states. California food banks, such as FIND Food Bank in Coachella Valley and Second Harvest Food Bank in Orange County, are bracing for significant surges in need, with local officials requesting National Guard support and setting up temporary food distribution points to assist affected residents, including seniors and children. Similarly, Mississippi Food Network is preparing for heightened demand amid uncertainty surrounding SNAP benefits, which typically rise during the holidays but are exacerbated by the shutdown. San Diego County faces similar risks, where delays in CalFresh payments threaten food security for hundreds of thousands, particularly vulnerable populations like children and the elderly. In Missouri, Boone County commissioners are allocating additional funds to local food banks to help offset the impact of benefit delays and growing food insecurity, while lawmakers urge the USDA to use contingency funds to maintain SNAP support during the shutdown. Overall, food banks nationwide are coordinating emergency preparations and appealing for donations and volunteers to meet the increased needs caused by the federal funding lapse.