Food pantries in Iowa at a loss as SNAP benefits shutdown approaches 

Due to the ongoing government shutdown, nearly 42 million Americans are at risk of losing federal food and nutrition assistance benefits. This includes the 270,000 Iowans who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, previously known as food stamps. According to the Trump Administration, the program will run out of funds by November 1, and the Electronic Benefit Transfer, or EBT, cards used for SNAP benefits will not be refilled. However, the AP reported that two federal judges “ruled nearly simultaneously” on Friday that the Trump administration “must continue to fund SNAP “using contingency funds” during the government shutdown.

SNAP Benefits date back to the Great Depression, and it is the biggest anti-hunger program in the country. It has never been disrupted, and now, food banks and pantries in Iowa are figuring out measures to provide for everyone who needs assistance. 

Food Bank of Iowa, a non-profit organization partnered with food pantries and meal sites across Iowa, is bracing itself and its partners for Nov. 1. Emily Shearer, vice president of Food Acquisition and Advocacy, shared what the organization is doing and what they have seen since the announcement.

“We don’t know what to expect,” Shearer says. “We have seen a record rise in need. We are doing our best by letting partners and neighbors know that we will still be here. [Our organization] is bracing for the possibility that there will be a lapse in availability [of food].”

With Nov. 1 approaching, Iowans have begun to feel insecure about the amount of food they will receive before then. Shearer agrees, saying the demand is higher. “People come looking for services, and more individuals are coming to get food since then.”

In response, Gov. Kim Reynolds is encouraging Iowans to donate to their local food bank to aid those relying on SNAP benefits in preparation of the Nov. 1 federal food assistance lapse. The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services will match $1 million in cash donations to six of Iowa’s regional food banks beginning Nov. 1.

“By making a cash donation to the food bank that serves your area, you can help a family near you keep food on the table,” Reynolds said at a news conference Oct. 31. “Better yet, your donation will go twice as far because the state will match it dollar for dollar.”

More updates to come as the news continue to develop.