SNAP Benefits Partially Funded After Court Order
- Voice Buffalo
- Nov 3
- 2 min read
Updated: Nov 4
This is an evolving situation, and we will note updates as information becomes available. For ongoing updates about SNAP benefits, please visit otda.ny.gov.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), which administers the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), announced on October 10th that it would not use available contingency funds to issue November benefits if the federal government shutdown continued, putting food security at risk for 41 million Americans. However, following a federal court order on November 3rd, the Trump Administration was directed to release at least partial SNAP benefits for the month using those contingency funds.
What Does This Mean
Following the court order, the Trump Administration says it plans to cover roughly half of current participants’ benefit levels but will it not cover new applicants for November. Distribution will likely be delayed and may take weeks or months to implement the system changes needed. The partial funding means many households in Erie County will still see a reduced benefit, delayed benefit, and increasing food insecurity. Local food banks, pantries, and emergency support networks while not a solution will continue to see heightened demand as benefits are reduced or delayed.
OPWDD Guidance
For individuals receiving OPWDD services:
Those living in certified provider-operated housing will continue to receive food and support.
Those living independently should contact their Care Manager immediately if they risk running out of food or resources.
Resources
Offer vegan and vegetarian meal
Buffalo City Mission — 100 E. Tupper St., Buffalo | (716) 854-8181
Provides daily meals, food boxes, and emergency shelter.
Friends of Night People — 394 Hudson St., Buffalo | (716) 884-5375
Hot meals, clothing, and social services.
Gerard Place — 2515 Bailey Ave., Buffalo | (716) 897-9948
Family resource center offering food pantry services.
Comments