RALEIGH, N.C. (WGHP) — An estimated 1.4 million North Carolina families are set to lose food assistance starting November 1 due to the ongoing federal government shutdown, according to state and federal officials.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that SNAP benefits will not be distributed as scheduled next month because of the shutdown, leaving millions of Americans uncertain about how they will feed their families.
“This could push our hunger relief network to a breaking point,” said Jason Kanawati Stephany, Vice President of the Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina. “We’re expecting a significant increase in the number of people seeking emergency food assistance, and that’s on top of the challenges we were already facing.”
In North Carolina alone, four out of five families receiving SNAP benefits include children, seniors, veterans, or individuals with disabilities.
1.4 Million North Carolina Families to Lose Food Assistance
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) confirmed that it has been instructed by the federal government to delay November benefits, citing the USDA’s decision not to use its $6 billion in emergency reserve funds.
Without those funds, states will not be reimbursed for any benefits issued in November, creating uncertainty for both families and state agencies.
State lawmakers, including Representative Sarah Crawford, are calling for emergency measures.
“We should be looking into our emergency funds to support families and keep SNAP going,” Crawford said. “Nobody should have to decide between paying for their prescription drugs or putting food on the table.”
Governor Josh Stein also urged the federal government to take immediate action to continue assistance, saying the state cannot allow vulnerable families to go hungry.
As of now, North Carolina food banks and local hunger relief organizations are bracing for an overwhelming surge in demand if benefits are not restored by November 1.
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Source: myfox8
Written by: Daniel Olafamoye, Greensboro NC News.
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