Federal Shutdown Threatens SNAP Funding, Indiana School Lunch Programs

Amid the ongoing federal government shutdown, free and reduced-price school meal programs in various U.S. school districts, including Indianapolis and Fayette County in Kentucky, are not currently impacted and will continue to operate as usual for the 2024-25 school year. This stability is due to school districts certifying their eligibility for federal nutrition programs like the Community Eligibility Provision on multi-year cycles. However, there is concern that prolonged disruptions to federal aid programs such as SNAP and Medicaid, which help determine school meal eligibility, may threaten these programs in the future and increase reliance on local food banks and charities. School districts are encouraging families experiencing income changes or food insecurity to apply for meal assistance, emphasizing that applications can be submitted anytime income situations change. Community support through food donations, funds, and volunteer efforts is being urged to help maintain local food pantries that supplement these school nutrition programs. Overall, while federal shutdown effects have not yet disrupted school meals, the strain on associated food assistance services remains significant.