What is going on with SNAP right now?
On Friday, October 17th, the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) issued an official statement informing SNAP recipients that November benefits will not be paid until the federal government shutdown ends and / or funds are released to Pennsylvania.
Although on October 31, two federal judges ruled that the USDA must distribute funds to the SNAP as soon as possible, November benefits will be delayed.
It is expected that November SNAP benefits that are delayed by the shutdown will be reimbursed once Congress passes a budget and the government reopens. You will not permanently lose your benefits as a result of the delay, but is it extremely important to keep your income and household information up to date throughout this period to make sure you receive benefits as soon as possible when funding returns. Do not delay in submitting any renewal paperwork you receive from the county assistance office.
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Anyone looking to apply for SNAP benefits can still do so during the government shutdown, but should not expect to receive benefits until after the shutdown ends. WIC, Medicaid, and Medicare are not currently being affected.
Where can I get help getting food right now?
Below are alternative food resources available in Philadelphia while SNAP benefits are delayed:
Many of these alternative food resources may not require ID or paperwork!
What is SNAP?
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps people in eligible, low-income households obtain more nutritious foods. A monthly benefit amount is determined based on household income and size. Benefits are then placed into an electronic benefits transfer (EBT) account that can only be accessed by the SNAP recipient, often the head of the household. Recipients then use the EBT card to purchase food at participating grocery stores.
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For more information, to apply, or to file a complaint, visit this website.