SNAP Benefits at Risk as Government Shutdown Continues

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KATV) — As the federal government shutdown stretches into its second week, concerns are growing over the potential depletion of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. The White House warns that if the shutdown does not end soon, many families may face significant hardships.

Food banks across Arkansas are bracing for increased demand as they prepare to support furloughed workers and families who depend on assistance. Debra Strickland Allen, the founder and executive director of the First Ward Living Grace Food Pantry in Pine Bluff, expressed her concern about the rising levels of food insecurity in her community.

“I need everybody to know my hometown is suffering,” Allen said. “It just, it just hurts my soul.” Her pantry is among the over 400 partners connected with the Arkansas Foodbank. With SNAP funding uncertain, food pantries are predicting longer lines and greater need.

Claire Tiffin, director of community engagement at the Arkansas Foodbank, indicated that while they have sufficient supplies for October, the situation may worsen if the shutdown extends into November. “What we’ve been told is through the month of October, we’re going to be okay, but if we go long 30 days into November, we’re going to start to see some real impacts,” Tiffin explained.

Donations to the food bank have increased since the start of the shutdown, but there are concerns that prolonged disruption could lead to a significant strain on resources. “The longer this lasts, the worse the impact is going to be,” Tiffin added.

Allen also noted that many furloughed workers in her community are struggling not only to obtain food but also basic personal items. “I’m saying, Lord, I can’t do it all by myself, but I’m going to try to do what we can,” Allen remarked.

To assist families during this time, Allen is organizing a pop-up giveaway next week and plans to proceed with her pantry’s annual Thanksgiving and Christmas events, which will provide holiday meals and gifts for children.