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Food assistance programs are in danger as the U.S. government shuts down

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By MICHAEL GRANT

November 5, 2025 ยท 8 mins read

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ne of the most important things to worry about during the U.S. government shutdown is how unstable national food aid programs are getting.Every month, millions of Americans depend on federal nutrition assistance, but this fight in Congress might put an end to programs like SNAP and WIC. The shutdown isn't just about money; it also puts people who are already weak at risk of not having enough food.

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What the shutdown means for SNAP benefits

One of the most important federal programs that could be cut is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). States can sometimes use reserve funds to keep SNAP payments going for a short time, but these funds run out quickly when the government is closed for a long time. As the deadline gets closer, people with low incomes may have to wait longer for payments or get less help.

They are already having trouble finding food, which makes them worry about money. The disruption also puts a lot of stress on local food banks, which may not have enough food to meet the need.

What it will mean for the WIC and food programs for mothers and kids

The Women, Infants, and Children program (WIC) is especially weak when the government shuts down because it needs a lot of federal money to keep going.Many states only have a short-term backup plan for WIC.

If the shutdown goes on for too long, clinics may have to close and payments may stop.This is bad news for pregnant women, babies, and young kids who need help with their diets to stay healthy.Even brief breaks can have lasting effects on a child's growth and a mother's health.

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Communities and food banks are feeling the pressure more

If government food assistance programs don't work, more people will have to go to local food banks and community shelters for help. People who are already short on cash may have trouble keeping up as more people look for emergency meals.

People who work for NGOs and people who volunteer all over the country are worried that they won't be able to meet this level of need for long.The pressure shows how closely linked federal programs and local support systems are, and how quickly a government shutdown can ruin both.

What it does to the economy, families, and the food industry

The government shutdown affects more than just people who get food stamps.It also hurts grocery stores, farmers, and other businesses that depend on federal nutrition programs to keep customers coming in.

Companies that work in areas with low incomes say their sales go down when benefits are cut.Farmers who work with food assistance programs might not get paid back or might lose their agricultural support services.

The government needs to act quickly

Lawmakers need to act quickly because more and more people are worried about programs that help people get food. As the U.S. government stays closed, more and more people are worried about their money and food.

The government needs to get back to work for political reasons and to protect the health, dignity, and stability of millions of people who rely on food aid to live.


Author

MICHAEL GRANT

ABOUT AUTHOR

Michael Grant is a US journalist who writes for major newspapers about changes in US politics and the economy.He tells his readers the truth about what's going on.

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