DoorDash launches massive effort helping millions hit by SNAP benefit freeze

As the federal government shutdown stretches into its fourth week, millions of Americans are facing a harsh new reality: the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which helps put food on the table for over 42 million people, is on pause.

The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) has confirmed that, due to a lack of congressional funding, no SNAP benefits will be issued for November. That means 21 million children, 16 million working families, and 5 million seniors are left wondering how they’ll afford their next meal.

But in the midst of this uncertainty, a glimmer of hope has emerged. DoorDash, the food delivery giant, is stepping up in a big way to help those hit hardest.

The stark reality of America's food crisis​

Over the weekend, the USDA posted a sobering message on its website: "The well has run dry. At this time, there will be no benefits issued November 1." The agency's blunt tone drew widespread criticism, but the human impact remains unchanged—millions will wake up on November 1st without the food assistance they've counted on for years.

Multiple US states have issued alerts to SNAP recipients, warning that they may not receive their benefits in November if the shutdown is not resolved.

DoorDash steps up: What’s on the table?​

Food delivery platform DoorDash has announced a sweeping nationwide initiative to help bridge the hunger gap while SNAP benefits remain frozen.

The company’s new “Emergency Food Response,” announced on October 26, aims to provide one million free meal deliveries, fee waivers for grocery orders, and direct food donations through its network of community partners.

This plan, run through “Project DASH,” will channel help to food banks, pantries, and local groups that already serve families, seniors, and individuals who rely on SNAP. It’s a major undertaking designed to offer temporary relief to those most at risk.

How the initiative works​

The Project DASH program will coordinate one million free meal deliveries across the country. Partner food banks and community organizations will receive ready-to-eat meals, which they’ll distribute directly to those in need.

Seniors and families who already receive food assistance are encouraged to check with their local pantries to see if they’re participating in the DoorDash program.

Outreach efforts are already underway, with many organizations contacting clients directly about delivery options.

Also read: Facing SNAP payment delays? TikTok users share genius food budget tips that actually work

Waived grocery delivery fees for SNAP users​

DoorDash is also temporarily removing delivery and service fees for customers who use SNAP or EBT cards. From November 1 through November 30, eligible users can order groceries from participating retailers, up to 300,000 total orders nationwide, and have them delivered at no cost.

To qualify, users must link a valid SNAP/EBT card to their DoorDash account and place their order through participating stores such as Sprouts, Dollar General, Schnucks, Hy-Vee, Giant Eagle, Wegmans, and Ahold Delhaize brands.

Taxes, tips, and some additional fees may still apply, but delivery and service charges will be waived automatically at checkout for the first eligible order.

Food donations through DashMart​

In addition to meals and grocery deliveries, DoorDash will also donate food and essential goods directly to local food banks.

Its DashMart convenience hubs are sending fresh produce, pantry staples, and household supplies to communities most affected by the SNAP pause.

DoorDash says it’s prioritizing areas where food banks are seeing the greatest surge in demand. Those in need can contact their local food banks to see if DashMart donations are available.

Why it matters—especially for seniors​

For many older Americans, SNAP is a lifeline. According to the USDA, 5 million seniors rely on these benefits to help cover the cost of groceries each month. With the program on hold, the risk of food insecurity skyrockets, especially for those living on fixed incomes or with limited mobility.

DoorDash’s emergency response is a much-needed stopgap, but as Max Rettig, DoorDash’s Vice President and Global Head of Public Policy, put it, “We know this is a stopgap, not a solution. But doing nothing simply isn’t an option.”

The company’s efforts, in partnership with national food banks and major grocery retailers, are designed to help as many people as possible weather this crisis.

Also read: Could online grocery shopping be the secret to healthier eating and saving money? Here's what new research says

What you can do right now​

Finding local food assistance

• Contact 211 (dial 2-1-1) for information about local food banks, senior meal programs, and emergency assistance
• Check with your local Area Agency on Aging for senior-specific food programs
• Visit religious organizations and community centers, which often maintain food pantries
• Look into senior-specific programs like Meals on Wheels or congregate meal sites

Maximizing existing benefits

• Use any remaining October SNAP benefits immediately, as some states have warned that EBT cards may not function properly after November 1
• Contact your local SNAP office for specific guidance about your state's situation
• Keep all documentation related to your benefits for when the program resumes

Advocates call for Congress to act​

While DoorDash’s initiative is a lifeline for many, advocates stress that the only real solution is for Congress to restore and protect SNAP benefits.

As Eric Mitchell, President of the Alliance to End Hunger, said, “We know that the only viable solution is to ensure SNAP benefits are being delivered in full to those in need of food assistance as soon as possible.”

If you’re feeling the pinch, you’re not alone. Food banks and pantries across the country are bracing for a surge in demand, and community organizations are working overtime to fill the gap. If you’re able, consider donating to your local food bank or volunteering your time—they need all the help they can get.

Read next:

• If you get SNAP benefits, you could be missing out on these hidden freebies
• Major SNAP updates could affect your benefits—here’s what’s changing this fall
• Privacy questions arise after 27 states share sensitive food stamp records with the USDA

Key Takeaways

• DoorDash has announced it will offer one million free meal deliveries across the US in response to a freeze on federal SNAP benefits, which has left over 42 million Americans without access to food assistance.
• The company is partnering with national food banks and major grocery retailers to waive delivery and service fees for up to 300,000 grocery orders placed with a valid SNAP/EBT card throughout November.
• DoorDash will also be donating fresh food, pantry staples, and household items from its DashMart locations directly to local food banks in affected communities.
• While DoorDash’s measures are a temporary solution, groups such as the Alliance to End Hunger emphasize the urgent need for SNAP benefits to be fully restored and protected as soon as possible.

Are you or someone you know affected by the SNAP freeze? Have you tried DoorDash’s free meal delivery or grocery fee waivers? Do you have tips for stretching your food budget or finding community resources?