Tyler Perry Fights Food Insecurity Amid SNAP Benefit Cuts

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Tyler Perry is stepping up to support families facing food insecurity as the ongoing government shutdown threatens Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. The filmmaker, 56, has donated nearly $1.4 million to organizations working to support affected families.

In an exclusive statement to PEOPLE, Perry expressed his concern over looming SNAP cuts, calling the situation ‘heartbreaking.’ He emphasized the critical role these benefits play for millions of Americans, stating, ‘If you’ve never been poor then you may not fully understand the life-changing impact SNAP benefits mean to hard-working people, to our seniors and to our children.’

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) warned that approximately 42 million Americans could lose their SNAP benefits due to insufficient federal funding for November. Perry highlighted that for many families, the loss could result in extreme hunger, particularly affecting infants who rely on formula.

‘Compassion is not political, it’s humanity and we seem to be missing both right now,’ Perry added in his statement. A source close to Perry noted, ‘Tyler knows firsthand what it feels like to be hungry and homeless. He is absolutely devastated by what is happening to so many people.’

The government shutdown, which began on October 1, has now surpassed the previous record of 35 days set during President Donald Trump’s administration. During this critical time, other celebrities are also advocating for vulnerable families. Actor Jimmy Kimmel announced that his show will host a food donation center in Los Angeles to assist those impacted by the SNAP cuts.

As the deadline approaches and uncertainty mounts, Perry’s actions shine a light on the urgent need for compassion amidst political strife.