Over 1 Million Georgians Face Loss of Food Aid as Government Shutdown Continues

ATLANTA, GA — More than 1.4 million Georgians who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) are at risk of losing their food benefits starting November 1, as the federal government shutdown enters its fourth week.

The Trump administration has announced it will not utilize approximately $5 billion in contingency funds to continue SNAP payments into November. A USDA memo states, “Contingency funds are not legally available to cover regular benefits,” emphasizing that these funds are reserved for emergency situations, such as disaster response.

The shutdown, which began on October 1, has created a political deadlock. Democrats insist on extending expiring Affordable Care Act subsidies before agreeing to reopen the government, while Republicans demand the government be reopened first. This impasse has left SNAP recipients uncertain about their food assistance. The USDA’s notice underscores the urgency: “The well has run dry,” indicating that without legislative action, benefits will cease.

In Georgia, the Department of Human Services has advised SNAP recipients to use existing balances on their EBT cards and prepare for potential disruptions. While some states have pledged to continue benefits using state funds, the USDA has clarified that states will not be reimbursed for these expenditures. This situation has prompted concerns among lawmakers and advocacy groups about the impact on low-income families, especially as the holiday season approaches.

With the shutdown showing no immediate signs of resolution, over 41 million Americans nationwide face the prospect of losing essential food assistance. Lawmakers and advocacy organizations continue to urge the administration to reconsider its decision and utilize available contingency funds to prevent a widespread food insecurity crisis.