US government says it will stop paying for food aid next week

October 26, 2025

The US government shutdown has led the Department of Agriculture to announce that Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits will cease distribution in November, affecting over 40 million Americans. The Trump administration has declined to use contingency funds for SNAP benefits, claiming these reserves must be preserved for emergencies like natural disasters. Democrats have strongly criticized this decision, arguing that significant funding remains available in the contingency reserve that could cover most November benefits.

Who is affected

More than 40 million Americans (one in every eight Americans) who rely on SNAP
Low-income families who depend on SNAP for grocery budgets
One million people in Massachusetts expected to lose benefits
States administering the program that may not be reimbursed for using their own funds

What action is being taken

Several states are pledging to use their own funds to cover the shortfall
States are working to help SNAP recipients locate charity food pantries and find alternative meal sources
California is deploying its National Guard to help distribute food
Democratic House members are requesting the Agriculture Department release contingency reserves

Why it matters

SNAP provides essential food assistance averaging $715 per month for a family of four (approximately $6 per day per person)
The program plays a vital role in many grocery budgets
Many states lack sufficient funds to cover the shortfall without federal support
The government shutdown has reached its 26th day, making it the second-longest in history

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC