SNAP Benefits Near Expiry Threatening Food Security for 40 Million Amid Federal Shutdown

As the federal government shutdown continues into late 2025, millions of Americans relying on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) face the imminent loss of benefits, raising serious food security concerns nationwide. Nonprofit organizations across states including Maryland, Wisconsin, and Florida report surging demand for food aid, with groups like So What Else in Maryland struggling to meet the needs of tens of thousands of families and individuals who fear they cannot afford essentials like rent or groceries. Many recipients, such as disabled seniors in Florida and disabled couples in Wisconsin, describe the hardship and anxiety caused by potential benefit cuts, highlighting the critical role SNAP plays in their ability to afford nutritious food. Despite Democratic efforts in the Senate to pass emergency funding specifically for SNAP, Republican leaders rejected these proposals, insisting on all-or-nothing government funding negotiations and blaming Democrats for prolonging the shutdown. The Department of Agriculture has warned that SNAP funds will be exhausted shortly, and states have taken legal action to try to mitigate the impact. Meanwhile, local communities and grassroots initiatives have stepped up to fill emerging gaps, but leaders acknowledge that their capacity is insufficient to fully compensate for the loss of federal support during this crisis.