Government shutdown could delay November SNAP benefits in Kentucky

WNKY Staff,
food

Editor’s note: This information is subject to change depending on the government shutdown and information released by the Team Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services. News 40 will continue to update this story as these details change. 

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – Just one week ago, Kentucky nonprofits recognized World Food Day. However, an increased need for food donations could be on the horizon.

The Team Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services states that the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, continues to operate in October.

However, the cabinet says it is not yet clear how the government shutdown will impact Kentucky’s SNAP recipients in November.

A notice by the cabinet states, “It is not yet known whether November benefits will be loaded on EBT cards on time, or at all, while the shutdown continues.”

What SNAP participants should know, according to officials

  • You will still get your October benefits.
  • You can keep using any benefits already on your EBT card.
  • This issue does not affect your eligibility for SNAP.
  • DCBS offices are open and are still taking applications.
    • This includes benefits from the Simplified Assistance for the Elderly, or SAFE, and Elderly Simplified Application Project, or ESAP, programs.

For the latest updates on the status of SNAP benefits, click here.

Resources for those in need 

If you are in need of additional pantry resources this November, here are some local agencies that may help:

If you would like News 40 to help spread the word of any additional need for food donations to food banks or nonprofits during this time, please submit that information to news@wnky.com.

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