Updates from the Ohio Association of Foodbanks on Federal Government Shutdown Impacts and Response

UPDATE: Late Wednesday (11/12/2025), President Donald Trump signed legislation to end the 43-day federal government shutdown, extending funding for most federal agencies through January 30. The new funding package includes full-year support for the U.S. Department of Agriculture and programs like SNAP, WIC, and TEFAP, with temporary funding for other agencies through January 30, 2026. Most states are expected to receive SNAP funds within 24 hours, though timing may vary. While this brings relief, many families are still facing uncertainty about when benefits will be restored in full. We will continue to share updates on what this means for Ohio families.

As the federal government shutdown persists, we first want people in need to know that Ohio’s network of 12 Feeding America foodbanks, serving all 88 counties, remains a trusted resource for our neighbors. Together with more than 3,600 partner agencies, including faith-based pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters, we continue to serve families across the state during this time of uncertainty.

A prolonged shutdown jeopardizes vital federal nutrition programs, including SNAP. The continued shutdown will impact benefits for November, affecting roughly 1.5 million Ohioans who count on an average of $168 per person each month to help them feed their families. Delays in benefits or missed paychecks for federal employees will quickly increase the number of families seeking food assistance through our foodbanks and pantries.

Ohio foodbanks are already seeing increased demand. Many are taking proactive steps, including hosting targeted food distributions, sharing flyers and resources through community partnerships, and coordinating closely with county Departments of Job and Family Services. Where possible, they are surging additional private food purchasing dollars to do what they can to keep shelves stocked. However, though we have demonstrated a remarkable capacity to stretch limited resources to serve high numbers of people in need, SNAP benefits far surpass any response our charitable network normally provides – from the 2nd to the 20th of each month, these benefits put $13 million per day into the food purchasing budgets of seniors and families across Ohio.

Even amid these challenges, our foodbanks and pantries are committed to remaining safe, welcoming spaces where anyone in need can find help. Should you or someone you know be in need of emergency help, please visit our foodbank map to click on your county and find resources available near you.

We will continue serving Ohioans during this period of disruption and are grateful for your consistent partnership and support as we work to ensure every Ohioan has access to the food they need and deserve. As the shutdown progresses, we will be monitoring the status of strain on our system and the food supply we have available. We urge every person to offer patience and empathy to their neighbors and to the staff and volunteers in our network striving to help as best they can.

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I live in Ohio and participate in SNAP. Will November SNAP benefits be issued?

The federal government has announced that some reduced SNAP benefits will be issued for November. Read more here. As of November 10, 2025, the Ohio Department of Job and Family Servces (ODJFS) announced taking the necessary steps to distribute partial benefits as early as November 12, 2025. We are hopeful that this partial funding will offer some relief to families, especially as the holidays approach. We do not have additional information at this time but will share updates as soon as they become available.

Will my SNAP benefits from October still be on my EBT card in November if the government is shut down?

Yes, if you have benefits still available on your EBT card from prior month(s), they will remain available for you to spend in November.

I am on WIC - will WIC benefits be issued in November?

WIC benefits remain uncertain depending on how long the federal government shutdown progresses, but as of right now, you should continue to spend your benefits as needed. Local WIC clinics remain open in Ohio to provide services as normal.

I need to apply for SNAP. Can I still apply?

You should still apply as normal. Even if benefits may not be available as soon, you may receive benefits retroactive to the date you applied.

I am a federal worker impacted by a furlough or required to work without pay. Can I get help from a foodbank?

Yes, we are here to serve you as you face budget shortfalls due to lost pay.

I want to help. How can I best help right now?

If you’re able, there are several meaningful ways to support Ohioans facing hunger during this time. Monetary donations go the furthest in helping foodbanks purchase and distribute nutritious food where it’s needed most. To make a donation directly to the Ohio Association of Foodbanks or to find your local foodbank and learn about their donation options, please click the button below. If you know someone on SNAP who may be impacted, please consider providing direct help to them if you are able. We need volunteers to continue to support our mission - please give of your time if you can. Most importantly, please offer patience and empathy to every person you meet - they may be struggling with heightened food insecurity and uncertainty, and your kindness matters. Please offer the same to hunger relief agencies and their staff and volunteers doing the best they can to respond in this moment.