Millions of Americans are feeling the effects of the ongoing government shutdown. With Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) benefits delayed, many families are unsure where to turn for help.
To help bridge the gap, we’ve compiled food resources for families affected by SNAP benefit delays, offering reliable options for finding free and low-cost meals across the communities we serve.
What’s Happening with SNAP and WIC
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has confirmed that November SNAP benefits will be delayed due to the ongoing federal government shutdown.
Here’s what to know:
- October benefits are safe. Anyone who received benefits in October can continue using them as usual.
- November benefits will come later. Missed payments will be reimbursed once the government reopens.
- WIC benefits may vary by state. Some states may run out of WIC funds in early November, depending on reserves.
- Applications and renewals should continue. Submitting applications now ensures cases move forward quickly when the shutdown ends.
- Work requirements remain active. Some adults without dependents must meet new federal “time limit” rules for SNAP. People with disabilities may qualify for exemptions.
To find your local office or sign up for updates, visit the SNAP State Directory.
Food Resources for Families Affected by SNAP Benefit Delays
If your household is impacted by the delay, free and low-cost programs are available across the country. These organizations can help you find groceries, hot meals, or delivery options.
National Resources
- Feeding America: Locate your nearest food bank at feedingamerica.org/find-your-local-foodbank.
- USDA National Hunger Hotline: Call 1-866-3-HUNGRY (English) or 1-877-8-HAMBRE (Spanish), or text FOOD to 914-342-7744.
- 211 (United Way): Dial 211 or visit 211.org to find local food, housing, and utility programs.
- FindHelp.org: Search by ZIP code for food pantries and community support services.
- Salvation Army: Many locations offer free groceries and community meals. Visit salvationarmyusa.org/hunger.
These national programs form the foundation of food resources for families affected by SNAP benefit delays, helping households find immediate, dependable options while benefits are paused.
Food Resources for Families in Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and Michigan
PurposeCare serves communities across Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and Michigan. Each state has food banks and pantries working to provide groceries and meals during this period.
- Illinois: Visit chicagosfoodbank.org or solvehungertoday.org to find nearby food distribution sites.
- Indiana: Use the Gleaners Food Bank search tool or call 2-1-1 for a list of local pantries.
- Ohio: The Ohio Association of Foodbanks connects residents with pantries and meal programs in every county.
- Michigan: Visit mi211.org or foodgatherers.org to locate nearby pantries or mobile food distributions.
For a more detailed, county-by-county list of food resources across these states, download the SNAP Food Resources Guide.
Staying Informed
If you receive SNAP or WIC, make sure your contact information is up to date with your local office so you don’t miss critical updates. Continue to use your October benefits now for shelf-stable foods, and reach out to the resources above if you need immediate support.
PurposeCare will continue sharing credible information from trusted partners to help families stay informed and connected to care.