Shutdown Stops SNAP Payments for 42 Million

The federal government shutdown has stopped November SNAP disbursements for roughly 42 million Americans, leaving children, seniors and people with disabilities without expected EBT funds and creating long lines at food banks. Federal judges have ordered the administration to tap contingency or emergency funds to resume payments within days, but the administration says it is seeking legal clarity and warns delays may persist as states process funds. States and localities are stepping in: Louisiana will use state money to cover November SNAP for the elderly, disabled and children in multiple smaller installments, and New York City, charities and community groups are expanding pantry and meal programs. Food banks and pantries report surging demand and strained supplies, and some small businesses are offering free or anonymous meals to help families. Recipients, including a wheelchair user in Louisiana and a cancer survivor in Illinois, say they are scrambling to stretch retirement or disability income and hopping between pantries while benefits remain uncertain.