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With a federal shutdown dragging on, SNAP benefits for nearly 42 million Americans could stop Nov. 1, putting families like Shari Jablonowski’s in crisis. The USDA says payments are on hold “until further notice,” blaming Senate Democrats; advocates counter the agency can tap reserves and may be obliged to keep funds flowing. WIC money is also running low. New work requirements start the same day. Mayors and states are scrambling—from emergency declarations to bolstering food banks—but charity can’t replace billions. Jablonowski, already skipping utility payments, fears losing heat and says the cutoff would ruin Thanksgiving.

Prepared by Christopher Adams and reviewed by editorial team.