Virginia Launches Emergency SNAP Program

Amid a federal government shutdown, Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin declared a state of emergency to address the suspension of federal SNAP benefits affecting 850,000 residents. As a response, Virginia introduced a state-funded emergency nutrition assistance program, providing weekly food assistance throughout November. This initiative, described as a first-of-its-kind, aims to ensure continued support for local SNAP recipients. The state's efforts, alongside similar actions in West Virginia, are crucial in mitigating the impact of the federal shutdown on vulnerable populations, particularly in regions like Fairfax County, where emergency food assistance is also being offered.