Government Shutdown Threatens SNAP Benefits

The ongoing U.S. government shutdown is jeopardizing SNAP benefits, putting food assistance at risk for millions, including 1.9 million Illinois residents and 830,000 Virginians. The crisis has prompted state-level responses, such as Virginia Governor Youngkin's state of emergency declaration. Food banks in Illinois and other states brace for increased demand as benefits face suspension. The Trump administration's actions and a Supreme Court appeal to freeze full payments have intensified debates. Local organizations are stepping up with emergency aid, while affected families explore alternative strategies to cope with potential benefit loss.