‘My first time at a food bank’: Millions set to lose food benefits if government shutdown drags on

SNAP Program Concerns - Millions of Americans face potential loss of SNAP benefits due to the government shutdown, causing families to seek alternatives [1] - Majority of SNAP recipients are children, followed by older adults and people with disabilities, including veterans and youth aging out of foster care [3] - Main reasons for SNAP enrollment include job loss, wage reduction, or caring for a family member, with most people on SNAP for 6 to 24 months depending on the economy [3] - One in eight Americans relies on SNAP, highlighting its critical role in food security [9] Funding and Potential Solutions - Congress has provided USDA with the authority to issue funding to prevent millions from losing food [1] - USDA was aware of the deadline to move funds forward to avoid benefit delays [5] - Contingency funding, Section 32 funds, and credit corporation funding are available resources [7][8] - Senate Republicans are discussing a bill to prevent the loss of food aid, but the Secretary of Agriculture could act more quickly by reallocating funds [8] Impact and Challenges - Families are struggling to afford rent, medicine, and car insurance, leading to food insecurity [11] - Food banks are working extra hours to address increased need, but they were created as an emergency mechanism, not a long-term solution [9][10] - SNAP recipients often allocate 70% to 80% of their limited income to housing [11]