SNAP Benefits Suspended: How Pennsylvanians Can Get Help

With federal food aid halted and state funds stalled, local food banks rally to fill the gap and seek community support to meet rising demand. 

The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) announced that starting October 16, 2025, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits cannot be paid to Pennsylvania residents until the federal government shutdown ends. 

With $366 million in monthly benefits for 2 million Pennsylvanians in jeopardy, Pennsylvania’s charitable food network is preparing for an unprecedented surge in need. 

All of this comes as the commonwealth enters its fourth month of a state budget impasse, which is holding up funding for social service organizations across the state and making it even more difficult for our food banks to purchase food at a time of great need. 

That said, Pennsylvania’s charitable food system is doing everything possible to help individuals and families in need. 

If you or someone you know is struggling to get adequate food, please dial 211 or visit www.pa211.org for food assistance programs. 

Know that none of us are designed to carry this burden alone. If you can donate to or volunteer with your local food bank to provide help during these difficult times, visit Hunger-Free PA to find the food bank nearest you.