Residents of Utah will still be able to utilize their current SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) balances after November 1, 2023, despite the suspension of new benefits due to the ongoing government shutdown. The Utah Department of Workforce Services provided clarification on the matter, stating that individuals with a balance from prior months can continue to make purchases.
On Wednesday, November 1, the department announced that SNAP benefits would not be issued for the month due to disruptions caused by the government shutdown, which has now entered its fourth week. This decision affects over 11,800 households in Utah, particularly in Wasatch and Summit Counties.
Community Response and Continued Support Programs
In light of these changes, the Community Action Services and Food Bank (CASFB) is preparing for a surge in community needs. The organization anticipates increased demand for food assistance and is actively seeking donations and volunteers to support local families facing food insecurity.
“We are committed to ensuring that our community does not go hungry during this challenging time,” said a spokesperson for CASFB. The organization has set a goal of raising 70,000 pounds of food for its pantries and partner organizations by November 1 to help alleviate the expected rise in demand.
While SNAP benefits will be unavailable, the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program will continue to operate normally due to contingency funding, providing essential support to vulnerable populations. Utahns are encouraged to utilize these resources as they navigate the upcoming month without new SNAP benefits.
As the situation develops, the Utah Department of Workforce Services emphasizes that individuals should check their SNAP accounts for balances and plan their purchases accordingly. The ongoing support from local organizations like CASFB will be crucial in helping families cope during this period of uncertainty.
For those looking to assist, donations can be made directly through the CASFB website, where further details on volunteer opportunities are also available.
