Federal Government
Shutdown Impact

The federal government shutdown has wide-ranging impacts on our community—from neighbors, to hunger-relief organizations, to our economy. Learn how the shutdown is affecting Minnesotans' access to food and how you can help.

Government Shutdown FAQs

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Our Response

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Government Shutdown FAQs

What impact is the current federal government shutdown having on SNAP?

States have been directed by the USDA not to issue November SNAP benefits. Furthermore, the USDA announced that, if the shutdown extends into November, SNAP benefits for all current participants could be delayed or not paid out at all. In past government shutdowns, payments have been delayed for some participants but never have they been missed altogether. This could mean that 440,000 Minnesotans will miss out on $72 million per month in grocery assistance for as long as the shutdown continues.

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, an extended shutdown will drive 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. Only the state and federal government have the resources necessary to meet this moment, and they need to hear that from all of us. 

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.

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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.

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