As the federal government shutdown continues, more than 900,000 residents in the Houston area could lose their SNAP benefits. A recent report says food assistance may stop if no resolution is reached by October 27. Families and individuals who rely on the program for daily food support may be affected if the shutdown is not resolved.
In Harris County, 642,890 people are at risk of losing their $395 monthly SNAP benefits during the shutdown, according to Click2Houston. Similar impacts are reported in nearby counties, including Fort Bend, Galveston, and Montgomery, where tens of thousands of residents may face food insecurity if benefits are delayed. Children ages 5 to 17 and adults ages 18 to 59 account for a large share of those who depend on the program.
The Texas Health and Human Services Commission said about 3.5 million Texans could have to choose between food and other basic bills if the government shutdown does not end soon. An Austin resident told KHOU, “That’s how we feed the kids, but it’s also how we stretch meals through the week. And also through the end of the month and so without it we will be choosing between food and bills.” The Houston Food Bank said demand is already up about 35% and expects more people to seek help. The Senate is preparing for a 12th vote on Wednesday to try to end the shutdown. Local outlets have shared assistance resources for those in need.
