SNAP Update: Food Assistance Delays Ahead

Written By Diane Longaker

Photo Credit: Pexels, Gustavo Fring

Let’s talk about a topic that touches many families in our community: food assistance through the SNAP program and how it’s being impacted by the federal government shutdown.

What is Happening?

The federal government is currently in a shutdown because Congress hasn’t passed the required spending bills. Because SNAP is a federally funded program administered by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), its funding is vulnerable when appropriations lapse. In Oregon, the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) has issued clear warnings, stating that if the shutdown continues into November, regular SNAP benefits will not be issued until federal funding resumes.

What Does This Mean?

If you already have funds on your EBT (electronic benefits transfer) card, you can continue to use them now, even if the shutdown continues. Your balance remains valid. But if the shutdown goes into November without a resolution, Oregon may be unable to issue new SNAP monthly benefits until funding is restored. This means families who depend on receiving fresh funds in early November could be facing a gap in assistance. The risk is real: more than 750,000 Oregonians could be affected.

For those newly applying or for special emergency food benefit programs (“Expedited SNAP”), similar delays may apply. It’s also important to recognize that this isn’t just a snapshot, upcoming federal changes like work-requirements, eligibility changes, and the like are adding layers of complexity.

Why This Matters

McMinnville and the surrounding Yamhill County region have many families, seniors, and individuals who rely on SNAP to cover groceries each month. When the food assistance system gets disrupted, it has real ripple effects:

  • Local food banks and pantries may see increased demand.

  • Grocery budgets that are already tight will become even more vulnerable.

  • Families may need to make tough choices between food, utilities, healthcare, or other necessities.

  • Uncertainty and stress increase, both for individuals and for agencies that support them.

What You Can Do

  • Use your current benefits: If you have SNAP funds already loaded, continue to use them for groceries.

  • Check your account status: If you have a ONE Online account or use the Oregon ONE mobile app, monitor any notices from ODHS.

  • Stay informed: Keep tuned to ODHS updates and local partner organizations for the latest on what is happening and what to expect.

  • Connect with local resources: Encourage folks who might be impacted to know where food banks and pantry services are in McMinnville and Yamhill County as a backup.

  • Advocate & support: Community groups, faith-based organizations, and residents can raise awareness about the urgency of this situation. Delayed or stopped SNAP benefits is not just an administrative issue, it’s a hunger issue.

  • Plan ahead: Households who rely heavily on monthly SNAP should consider contingency plans (budgeting, stocking up on non-perishables if feasible) in case there is a temporary gap.

  • Help your friends: If you know someone who relies on SNAP, check in with them. Offer to share a meal, cook together, or point them toward local food assistance options. A small gesture can go a long way in easing someone’s stress during uncertain times.

Food Aid Resources in McMinnville

Why Table Talk 101?

We believe that awareness is the first step toward action. The Table Talk 101 Blog Series and our accompanying social media series are designed to:

  • Educate the community about issues like hunger and poverty.

  • Share updates on SMB’s programs and events.

  • Highlight resources available to those in need.

  • Inspire action—volunteering, donating, or spreading the word.

Just like the conversations you might have while sitting down to a shared meal, we hope Table Talk 101 will create a space for dialogue, learning, and connection.

How You Can Get Involved

  • Read and Share → by following our weekly posts on the Table Talk 101 Blog and share them on social media to raise awareness.

  • Volunteer → by joining us on Saturdays to serve meals and connect with neighbors.

  • Support the sustainability of SMB → by donating, sponsoring, or joining our Full Plate Club, you help provide nourishment, stability, and hope to hundreds of neighbors right here in our community.

We can break the cycle of food insecurity and build a stronger, healthier community where everyone has a seat at the table! Stay tuned for next week’s Table Talk 101 post, where we’ll explore more about how food insecurity affects children and families—and what we can all do to help.

Diane Longaker
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