SNAP Benefits Lapse; 42 Million at Risk

SNAP benefits lapsed on Nov. 1 as the federal government shutdown extended into its fifth week, putting food assistance at risk for roughly 42 million Americans. Two federal judges in Rhode Island and Massachusetts ordered the administration to tap contingency funds to continue payments, and one judge gave the White House until Monday to say whether it will comply. The Trump administration has so far declined to use the billions in contingency cash, prompting mayors, governors and tribal nations — including the Navajo and Cherokee nations — to rush millions in emergency aid to plug gaps. Food banks, pantries and nonprofits report surging demand, with long pantry lines and panicked shoppers illustrating the immediate hardship faced by families, seniors, children and people with disabilities. Local volunteers and community drives are supplementing relief as officials say it remains unclear when federal SNAP payments might resume.