SNAP Paused; Judges Order Contingency Funds

SNAP benefits have been paused due to the federal government shutdown, jeopardizing food assistance for more than 42 million Americans. The pause has sharply increased demand at food banks and pantries and strained senior meal programs and other providers. Restaurants, markets, nonprofits and community groups across the country are mounting emergency responses — offering free meals, tokens and expanded distributions — while some states and municipalities are directing emergency aid (Illinois pledged $20 million to food banks). Two federal judges have ordered the administration to tap contingency funds to keep SNAP running, but timing is uncertain and the White House may appeal, leaving many families awaiting clarity. Local agencies warn that without rapid resumption or additional emergency funding, supplies and services could be quickly depleted.