The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits will pause on Oct. 29 due to the federal government shutdown, state officials announced Tuesday.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has notified the state that federal SNAP benefits for November will be delayed if the shutdown continues into next month, the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services said.
In the announcement, Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen blamed the shutdown on political games and the Democrats in the U.S. Senate.
DHHS has a plan in place to immediately begin working with the USDA to process payments and get benefits to recipients as soon as possible when the government shutdown ends, said CEO Steve Corsi.
Also, current SNAP recipients may continue to use any remaining benefits on their EBT cards. Unspent SNAP funds will be accessible for nine months from the date of last use, said Shannon Grotrian, Director of the Office of Economic Assistance.
“While November SNAP benefit issuances may be delayed, DHHS staff remain ready to assist Nebraskans by accepting and processing applications, recertifications, and reported changes,” Grotrian said.
Nebraskans who need assistance are encouraged to contact 211, a statewide resource and referral hotline. By dialing 2-1-1 or visiting https://uwm211.org/nebraska-programs, individuals can be connected with food, housing, financial assistance, and other support services.
“The Democrats locked Americans into this mess, and the Democrats hold the key to getting us out of it,” Pillen said.
“During this difficult time for some Nebraskans, 211 is prepared and ready to help residents in need of services,” said Matt Wallen, Chief Operating Officer of the United Way of the Midlands. “We encourage anyone who is struggling or unsure of where to turn to call 211.”
DHHS is actively coordinating with food banks, nonprofit partners, and community organizations across Nebraska during this period.
Additional food assistance resources include:
• Food Bank for the Heartland
• Catholic Charities
• MyLNK Resource Finder
For additional information and updates to Nebraska SNAP, click Here.
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We should make 11/1 a holiday. Democrats finally agreed to cut the federal deficit.