SPOKANE, Wash. – Federal judges have ruled that the White House must use contingency funding to keep SNAP food benefits available for tens of millions across the nation. This decision came just one day before the benefits were set to expire.
Despite the ruling, many recipients will likely face delays in receiving their benefits. NonStop Local reached out to food programs like Second Harvest, which have been severely impacted by the increase in demand during the shutdown.
Second Harvest has been serving thousands at their drive-thru markets this week, holding food distributions across the region. However, their spokesperson said they are not ready to comment, emphasizing that the situation remains unpredictable with an uncertain timeframe.
A customer service agent at the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare added that the pause on benefits will continue through November. As of Friday afternoon, there have been no changes or clear directions on how the situation will evolve.
Second Harvest is maintaining its focus on providing food for families in need.
