Montanans at risk as gridlock threatens SNAP benefits
Boxes full of holiday food items were handed out during the Flathead Food Bank's Thanksgiving distribution on Friday, Nov. 18. Around 800 families pre-registered for the distribution, which does not account for a two hour window set aside for families who were not able to pre-register. (Casey Kreider/Daily Inter Lake)
The effects of the monthlong government shutdown have come home to roost in the most repulsive way.
The well-being of more than 80,000 low-income Montanans — including 4,500 households in Flathead and Lincoln counties — was put in jeopardy after the federal government opted to cancel Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits during the shutdown. Thankfully, two federal judges ruled Friday that the U.S. Department of Agriculture must partially fund the program through an emergency account while the government remains closed. Residents with SNAP debit cards should see deposits within a few weeks.
While the rulings — which the Trump administration is likely to appeal — offer temporary relief to families and seniors who rely on the safety-net program, there is no guarantee SNAP will be funded if the shutdown drags on and the $5 billion emergency fund is depleted.
Local food pantries sounded the alarm last week, warning that their resources will be overwhelmed if SNAP goes unfunded or even underfunded.
SNAP benefits are for individuals and families with incomes below the federal poverty line. Nearly 40% of SNAP recipients are children, and another 20% are seniors.
“It’s going to hit people who are already hit hard. If they’re getting SNAP benefits, they’re not well off financially,” said B Bradford Fenchak, who runs the nonprofit Community Kitchen-Feeding the Flathead.
North Valley Food Bank in Whitefish typically serves between 1,200 and 1,500 people a week. The nonprofit expects that number to spike by as much as 200% if SNAP is canceled. To prepare, the food bank has expanded hours and reserved more warehouse space.
“I think we’re ready. As ready as we can be,” said Director Sophie Albert.
It’s deeply troubling how callously the nation’s most vulnerable are used for political theater. Congress would rather force families to choose between skipping meals and paying rent than negotiate a deal to fund the government.
Enough is enough. It’s time for lawmakers to set aside partisan gamesmanship, find common ground and end this shutdown embarrassment once and for all.
If that doesn’t happen and SNAP goes unfunded, Montana must follow the lead of dozens of other states and be prepared to tap into its own emergency account to ensure recipients get the benefits they need.
In the meantime, Northwest Montana food pantries need help now — especially as they prepare for the holiday rush. Consider making a donation or volunteering your time. Every dollar and extra pair of hands will help meet the unprecedented demand.