Now seems like a crucial moment for addressing hunger and economic struggles at a national level. With the House of Representatives passing a Republican funding bill that has been stalled in the Senate 12 times, many states are worrying about how to support those who depend on SNAP if funding disappears. If the shutdown extends into November, there’s a risk that SNAP could be halted altogether. Some states have already declared emergencies while others are recognizing the situation is dire, though they haven’t reached that point yet. Virginia, however, is taking a more proactive stance.
On Thursday, Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin declared a state of emergency, citing that the possible suspension of SNAP benefits represents a significant crisis for the state.
How Virginia’s state of emergency helps residents
Youngkin remarked, “The Democratic shutdown will eliminate SNAP benefits for over 850,000 Virginians after November 1, 2025.” He expressed his unwillingness to let hungry Virginians be used as leverage against Congressional Democrats, emphasizing his commitment to protecting those in need.
He reached out to Senators Tim Kaine and Mark Warner, urging them to support the resolution proposed by House Republicans to end the government shutdown.
With this state of emergency, Youngkin plans to utilize Virginia’s emergency funds to help provide food to residents in need. He stated, “The commonwealth will continue food benefits until Congressional Democrats prioritize Virginians over politics. We are grateful for the support from President Trump and his administration as we assist those who require help.”
Both senators indicated their support for the Republican resolution and their commitment to collaborating with Youngkin to resolve the shutdown situation.
Kaine mentioned, “I back any measures that can be taken at the state level to ensure food-insecure individuals don’t go without.” Meanwhile, Warner expressed frustration, stating, “What’s needed isn’t more suffering. The state must take responsibility for funding SNAP, and that needs to be communicated to the president.”
How some other states are preparing
Currently, 36 states have issued alerts about the impending cessation of SNAP funding. Each is handling the crisis differently, with some better positioned to manage immediate needs.
Most states warn that SNAP benefits will cease on November 1 unless the government shutdown is resolved by the end of October. Those impacted often include children, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities who are unable to work. There’s a real concern that families might have to choose between food and rent.
In Arkansas, for instance, SNAP recipients have been advised that they can either reserve some of their October benefits for November or seek assistance from local food banks – not an ideal long-term fix considering the expected rise in food bank demand.
Texas is guiding SNAP recipients to locate nearby food banks in the event of benefit suspensions, providing easy access to information for residents. Meanwhile, Pennsylvania has issued notices stating that SNAP will temporarily end on November 1 but assured recipients that unused funds will remain available on their EBT cards throughout the year.
Ohio’s Rep. Latina Humphrey is advocating for a new bill that would allow the state to draw from its rainy day fund to keep SNAP benefits flowing during the shutdown, with the understanding that the federal government would reimburse those funds eventually. This bill is still under consideration.
As of now, all 36 states have confirmed the termination of SNAP by November 1, prompting concern across the nation.
Even with widespread concern regarding SNAP, the White House has announced plans to lay off 4,000 federal employees, though the Office of Management and Budget Director Russ Vought expects this number could exceed 10,000 soon. Many layoffs across various departments are anticipated in the near future.
Vought stated, “We aim to aggressively minimize bureaucracy, which we can achieve through funding as well as systemic reform.”
Federal judges have temporarily blocked many layoffs, but the administration expects this situation to change shortly.
Food banks brace for increased demand, how Christians can help
State leaders are primarily directing those in need of SNAP assistance toward local food banks and pantries.
As Catherine D’Amato, CEO of the Greater Boston Food Bank, pointed out, the nation’s charitable food networks cannot quickly meet the surge in demand that could arise. She noted individuals are already reaching out for guidance on securing food for their families.
The Cincinnati Freestore Food Bank has been preparing proactively for an increase in need, having learned from past experiences during shutdowns.
Trisha Rayner, vice president at the Freestore, shared that they are coordinating efforts with Feeding America food bank partners nationwide, discussing strategies and messaging to enhance resource availability within communities.
November typically marks a peak season for food banks, and if SNAP benefits are delayed, local capacities will be heavily tested. Kathy Underhill, CEO of the Des Moines Area Religious Council, assured that they are working diligently to ensure continued service without interruption.
Food banks and pantries always welcome volunteers for meal distribution and stocking. Christians looking to assist can reach out to local organizations to help.
Additionally, both individuals and businesses are encouraged to contribute nonperishable food items or monetary donations to local food banks and pantries. Donations to 501(c)(3) organizations may be tax-deductible, so it’s essential for donors to keep records for tax purposes.
Churches with food pantries can significantly support their communities through increased donations, especially during this time.
For those interested in broader donation opportunities, national organizations like Feeding America, Salvation Army, and Hunger Free America offer various ways to contribute.
