Nutrition Assistance Expected to Cease for Over 40 Million During Prolonged US Government Shutdown

USDA officials declared this past weekend that monthly food benefits under one of the country’s largest support systems will not be distributed next month because of the continuing government funding lapse.

Closure Continues For Nearly Four Weeks

The funding lapse lasted nearly a month as officials revealed the news, coming after calls from over 200 House Democrats urging agriculture officials to utilize reserve accounts to pay for next month's benefits.

“Ultimately, the well has run dry,” the USDA stated. “At this time, no payments will be distributed” beginning in November.

Millions Affected

Tens of millions of people rely on these food benefits, according to the USDA. Some regions, including one southwestern state, reliance on this assistance reaches 21% of residents.

Documents reviewed by Reuters indicated that the department would not access reserve funds for November food benefits.

Political Stalemate

Congressional leaders remain deadlocked about the way to fund and reopen the federal government.

Comments by the director at a prominent policy organization noted that the White House had opportunities to take earlier action to ensure continuous assistance.

“Officials were able and expected to made moves weeks ago to be prepared to utilize available money,” the remarks concluded. “Rather, it may choose not to use them to secure political leverage” as conservative leaders work to push upper chamber Democrats to support a spending bill that would reopen government operations.

Local Responses

Executives in multiple regions issued emergency declarations this week to free up resources for hunger relief in anticipation of nutrition assistance payments stopping during the upcoming period.