As the United States government shutdown stretches into a record-breaking 36th day, millions of families who rely on federal food assistance are bracing for painful cuts.
White House officials told a federal judge that only partial Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) payments will be sent to more than 42 million Americans. SNAP, commonly known as food stamps, helps low-income households put food on the table — and for many, it is their only source of security.
Two separate court rulings last week ordered the administration to tap into a US$4.65 billion emergency fund to help cover the estimated US$9 billion cost for November benefits. But officials from the Agriculture Department confirmed they will not fill the remaining gap, meaning only half of the usual benefit will reach eligible families.
This shutdown, driven by a political standoff over healthcare funding under the Affordable Care Act, is leaving more Americans vulnerable with each passing week. The dispute centers on subsidies that help more than 20 million people afford health insurance — subsidies set to expire at year-end unless Congress takes action.
In the meantime, safety-net programs are straining. Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) support for pregnant women and infants is nearing exhaustion, and early-childhood programs serving thousands of infants have already begun closing their doors.
Despite growing pressure, both parties remain locked in conflict: Democrats demand an agreement to extend healthcare subsidies before reopening the government; Republicans insist negotiations can only begin once federal offices resume operations.
Former President Donald Trump said he has asked legal teams to determine how SNAP can be legally funded, but uncertainty remains. With delays likely and households already feeling the strain, the stakes are growing for millions who simply need food on their tables.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent emphasized that procedural steps must be followed before funds are distributed, while Democrats criticized the administration for offering only partial support. “Just now paying the bare minimum to partially fund SNAP is not enough,” said Senator Patty Murray. “It is not acceptable.”
