With the federal government shutdown cutting off access to November SNAP benefits, Missouri officials are taking steps to help those most impacted. SNAP is fully funded by the federal government, and with no way to replace those dollars through the state, families who rely on food assistance are left waiting. The Missouri Department of Social Services says they’re prepared to issue benefits as soon as the federal government reopens.
In response to the gap, Governor Mike Kehoe authorized a $10.6 million transfer from the Senior Services Growth and Development Fund to Missouri’s Area Agencies on Aging. That money will be used to support senior meal programs across the state. Additionally, $5 million in TANF funding is being released early to Missouri food banks to help meet the growing demand. This funding is normally distributed later in the year, but state officials say the need couldn’t wait.
While this won’t cover everything, it’s a temporary response to a growing issue. Many families in Missouri depend on SNAP to get by, and with no clear end to the shutdown in sight, state leaders say they’re watching the situation closely.
