Federal Government Shutdown Impact
Federal Government
Shutdown Impact
More than 440,000 Minnesotans were impacted by delays to SNAP benefits caused by the government shutdown. While November SNAP payments have gone out, many families are receiving less grocery support due to the federal cuts that were approved over the summer. The hunger relief network is working hard to ensure Minnesota has access to food. Here's how we're taking action and how you can get involved in your community.
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Government Shutdown FAQs
What impact is the current federal government shutdown having on SNAP?
November SNAP benefits were issued on Friday, November 7, to more than 440,000 Minnesotans who rely on the program for grocery support. While the level of reimbursement was the full allotment, many families will see lower benefit amounts in the coming months due to changes related to the SNAP cuts approved in the One Big Bill.
Has the problem been eliminated now that the federal government is distributing SNAP benefits again?
Unfortunately, no. We remain in a short and long-term hunger crisis. In the short term, Minnesota families are trying to adjust to the benefit disruption and scrambling to find emergency food access ahead of the holiday season. In the longer term, federal cuts to the SNAP program that were passed in July mean that even when current levels of funding are fully restored, people will not have the resources they need to fill their fridges.
What is the impact of the shutdown on Second Harvest Heartland?
Second Harvest Heartland receives federal funding for SNAP outreach, which supports the work of our Care Center to answer questions and help people enroll in SNAP. While that work continues, it is unclear whether we will be reimbursed for it. We also receive federal funding to distribute TEFAP and CSFP food, which may also be disrupted though we continue distributing this food to community.
More broadly, the shutdown drove another spike in demand at food shelves throughout the state at a time when hunger rates are already at record levels. There is simply not enough food in the system, especially following state and federal funding cuts, to meet the current need, let alone increased demand.
How are food shelves and food banks responding to this increased need?
Food shelves and other hunger relief programs are innovating and collaborating to meet the rise in need. They are listening to their neighbors and offering creative solutions such as emergency food boxes, expanded hours, or pop-up distributions.
As a food bank, we are looking at creative ways to support hunger-relief program partners as they face a sharp increase in numbers through their doors. We are working hard to source more product, partnering strategically to get more food into the community, and urging state and federal lawmakers to provide additional support.
These expanded services require additional resources, so food shelves and food banks alike are also focused on bringing in more money, food, and volunteers to support these efforts.
Where should people in need of emergency food assistance go for help?
Minnesotans can visit the “Find Food” map to find a food shelf or food distribution program near them. Additionally, anyone can click here to view additional resources for those affected by the lapse in SNAP.
Find Food Near Me Now
Our Food Resource Map
Our food resource map can direct you to food shelves and resources in your community. For more help finding food and resources, call our Care Center at 866-844-3663.
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Our Response
Supporting Neighbors
Despite a lapse in federal funding, our Care Center continues to answer questions about SNAP, help people apply, or find other food resources for anyone concerned about a disruption to their benefits.
Additionally, we’re partnering with The Sanneh Foundation to offer a pop-up distribution at MSP airport for the high concentration of federal employees missing paychecks.
More Food to Community
We are increasing our investment in food so partner hunger relief organizations can keep their shelves stocked. By collaborating with suppliers and donors we aim to minimize food waste and maximize fresh, nutritious food for our community.
Advocating for SNAP Funding
We are staying in close contact with state, federal, and county leaders to communicate the urgent need for so many neighbors. We cannot do this alone. Urgent action at the state and federal level are critical to preventing more Minnesotans from going hungry.
Get Involved
Volunteer
Support your neighbors and your local food shelf by volunteering during this time of high need! Food shelves are facing a spike in demand and could use your support more than ever. Use this map to find a food shelf near you and reach out directly about opportunities.
Donate
Your donation today can help us get more food into the community at this critical time. Make an emergency gift to Second Harvest Heartland to help get food on the table for Minnesota families.
Advocate
Contact your federal lawmakers and urge them to do whatever they can to fund SNAP and protect the more than 440,000 Minnesotans who rely on it to afford the food they need.