What happens if SNAP Benefits don’t go out?
The federal government shutdown has created an unprecedented crisis for our neighbors who rely on SNAP benefits that could have a massive impact on food banks and pantries in Polk County. On October 10, the USDA Food and Nutrition Service informed states that the federal government does not have enough funds to pay for November SNAP benefits.
Last Friday, October 17, the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services confirmed that November SNAP benefits will not be issued if the federal government shutdown remains in effect. If the shutdown continues into November, we are preparing for an unprecedented rise in need at local food pantries.
Here is what you need to know and how you can help…
Why It Matters
- The loss of SNAP doesn’t just hurt SNAP recipients—it affects all of us. SNAP issues $9 million in benefits every month in Polk County, but provides an economic boost as dollars are spent in our community on food.
- Food pantries and food banks across the state are already setting records. The loss of SNAP benefits would hurt many of our neighbors at a time when local food pantries are already the busiest they will be all year.
How are we preparing
Regardless of what the future holds, we will be here to meet the needs in our community. DMARC exists to help increase access to healthy food when an emergency strikes.
Steps DMARC is taking
- Increasing food inventory in our warehouse by an additional 25%
- Communicating around the clock with partners across the metro to ensure no interruptions to daily service
- There are no plans at this time to implement limits or alterations to our services. If you need help, we will be here.
Now is a great time to check in on your neighbors. If you’re concerned about someone you know, encourage them to reach out.
All DMARC Food Pantry locations guarantee a free three-day supply of food for you and your household. There are no income or residency restrictions and no application process. If you need help, please find a pantry that works for you at dmarcunited.org or call 515-277-6969.
Here’s how you can take action:
1. Contact Congress
Hungry people can’t wait. Congress needs to stop the shutdown and make sure every Iowan gets their SNAP benefits on time this November. If this is affecting you in any way, share your story with our representatives in Congress and call them today. Together, our voices will hold weight when time is running out for our most vulnerable neighbors.
Call your members of Congress and urge them to ensure that SNAP benefits go out on time this November.
- Senator Chuck Grassley: (202) 224-3744
- Senator Joni Ernst: (202) 224-3254
- Rep. Zach Nunn, 3rd District: (202) 225-5476
2. Volunteer at your local food pantry
Dedicate some of your time to supporting your local food pantry as a volunteer. They will be able to provide more food in the places it’s needed most.
3. Donate
Consider making a financial contribution to help us weather this storm and work together as a charitable sector to provide a safety net to people in this community who are already hurting. At DMARC, your financial contributions can be multiplied up to 6x what that same dollar amount is worth at your local grocery store by purchasing items in bulk. You can donate now at dmarcunited.org/donate.
We can’t do this alone, but together, we can support our neighbors through this crisis.
Stay in the Loop
Continue to follow the impacts of the government shutdown by following our partners at the Iowa Hunger Coalition. Share what the SNAP shutdown will mean for you and your family.
