Where to turn for help when SNAP runs short
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In times of uncertainty, even the most reliable sources of support can suddenly feel fragile. Across the country, many are wondering where to turn as programs they depend on face disruption.
Communities are quietly rallying, building strong networks of compassion and coordinated action to keep neighbors fed and connected.
The solutions may not be simple, but help is still out there for those who know where to look and are willing to reach out.
Millions of older adults are facing food insecurity as federal funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, remains delayed during the government shutdown.
Federal officials informed states that no new money would be distributed until funding is restored, leaving beneficiaries without their usual aid.
Although a court ruled that the US Department of Agriculture must use emergency funds to cover November benefits, many states missed the deadlines to issue payments, causing widespread delays.
State governments, nonprofits, and food banks have stepped in to help, but they stress these efforts cannot fully replace SNAP’s reach.
According to Feeding America, SNAP provides nine meals for every one meal distributed by food banks nationwide.
AARP is joining organizations around the country to help fill the gap, while also urging lawmakers to protect and strengthen SNAP for older adults.
The AARP Foundation has launched an emergency fundraiser to support local food banks and pledged to match donations up to $750,000.
“With more than 11 million older adults at risk of losing access to SNAP, we cannot wait to act,” says Claire Casey, president of AARP Foundation.
Those seeking immediate food assistance can start by calling 211, a national helpline that connects people with local social services.
Trained volunteers can provide information on nearby food pantries, free meal programs and delivery options, all while keeping calls confidential.
Also read: Millions set to receive up to $5,100 in Social Security this November—even after the shutdown
For those who prefer not to call, 211.org offers chat and text features as well as searchable databases of local support. This resource can be an important first step for anyone unsure where to find help during the SNAP delay.
Food banks and pantries nationwide are preparing for a surge in demand as households struggle to make ends meet.
“Everyone needs help sometimes in their life. It’s OK to ask for help, and there are people who want to help,” says Shelbi Schadendorf of The Open Door pantry in Minnesota.
Some pantries allow visitors to select items like a market, while others distribute pre-packed boxes or drive-through pickups.
Many recommend calling ahead to confirm hours and bringing your own bags if possible, as supplies can fluctuate quickly.
Local initiatives are also gaining attention, including “grocery buddy” programs started on social media by neighbors who want to help.
In Nashville, Brooke Tansley created an online post asking her community to match volunteers with those in need of groceries, transportation, or gift cards.
Within days, hundreds joined to offer or request help, creating a supportive, grassroots safety net. “My hope is that more neighborhoods, more towns and more communities are going to adopt this buddy system,” Tansley says.
Senior centers remain another valuable resource for free or low-cost meals, often designed specifically for older adults.
These centers may offer group dining or meals to go, and some require advance reservations.
Menus are typically built by nutritionists to support healthy aging, and local departments of aging can share schedules and eligibility details. Signing up for newsletters or alerts can ensure older adults stay informed about dining hours and community food programs.
Also read: How to claim your share: Popular delivery app donates $10 million in grocery relief for SNAP households
Additional options include checking whether unused funds remain on Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards, which can still be used even during the funding lapse.
The USDA’s online tool lists retailers that accept SNAP, helping recipients locate nearby stores that participate in the program.
DoorDash has announced that it will waive delivery and service fees for SNAP users in November who link their EBT cards to their accounts. For those unable to leave home, this can provide an essential way to keep groceries coming.
Read next:
Communities across the nation are proving that compassion can carry people through even the most uncertain times. Whether by donating, volunteering, or sharing information, everyone can play a part in helping neighbors stay fed. The need is great, but so is the willingness to step up and make a difference. How is your community responding to help those facing food insecurity right now?
Communities are quietly rallying, building strong networks of compassion and coordinated action to keep neighbors fed and connected.
The solutions may not be simple, but help is still out there for those who know where to look and are willing to reach out.
Millions of older adults are facing food insecurity as federal funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, remains delayed during the government shutdown.
Federal officials informed states that no new money would be distributed until funding is restored, leaving beneficiaries without their usual aid.
Although a court ruled that the US Department of Agriculture must use emergency funds to cover November benefits, many states missed the deadlines to issue payments, causing widespread delays.
State governments, nonprofits, and food banks have stepped in to help, but they stress these efforts cannot fully replace SNAP’s reach.
According to Feeding America, SNAP provides nine meals for every one meal distributed by food banks nationwide.
AARP is joining organizations around the country to help fill the gap, while also urging lawmakers to protect and strengthen SNAP for older adults.
The AARP Foundation has launched an emergency fundraiser to support local food banks and pledged to match donations up to $750,000.
“With more than 11 million older adults at risk of losing access to SNAP, we cannot wait to act,” says Claire Casey, president of AARP Foundation.
Those seeking immediate food assistance can start by calling 211, a national helpline that connects people with local social services.
Trained volunteers can provide information on nearby food pantries, free meal programs and delivery options, all while keeping calls confidential.
Also read: Millions set to receive up to $5,100 in Social Security this November—even after the shutdown
For those who prefer not to call, 211.org offers chat and text features as well as searchable databases of local support. This resource can be an important first step for anyone unsure where to find help during the SNAP delay.
Food banks and pantries nationwide are preparing for a surge in demand as households struggle to make ends meet.
“Everyone needs help sometimes in their life. It’s OK to ask for help, and there are people who want to help,” says Shelbi Schadendorf of The Open Door pantry in Minnesota.
Some pantries allow visitors to select items like a market, while others distribute pre-packed boxes or drive-through pickups.
Many recommend calling ahead to confirm hours and bringing your own bags if possible, as supplies can fluctuate quickly.
Local initiatives are also gaining attention, including “grocery buddy” programs started on social media by neighbors who want to help.
In Nashville, Brooke Tansley created an online post asking her community to match volunteers with those in need of groceries, transportation, or gift cards.
Within days, hundreds joined to offer or request help, creating a supportive, grassroots safety net. “My hope is that more neighborhoods, more towns and more communities are going to adopt this buddy system,” Tansley says.
Senior centers remain another valuable resource for free or low-cost meals, often designed specifically for older adults.
These centers may offer group dining or meals to go, and some require advance reservations.
Menus are typically built by nutritionists to support healthy aging, and local departments of aging can share schedules and eligibility details. Signing up for newsletters or alerts can ensure older adults stay informed about dining hours and community food programs.
Also read: How to claim your share: Popular delivery app donates $10 million in grocery relief for SNAP households
Additional options include checking whether unused funds remain on Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards, which can still be used even during the funding lapse.
The USDA’s online tool lists retailers that accept SNAP, helping recipients locate nearby stores that participate in the program.
DoorDash has announced that it will waive delivery and service fees for SNAP users in November who link their EBT cards to their accounts. For those unable to leave home, this can provide an essential way to keep groceries coming.
Read next:
- Will SNAP benefits be refilled sooner than expected? What you need to know about the new emergency payments
- DoorDash launches massive effort helping millions hit by SNAP benefit freeze
