Over 40 million Americans — including children, seniors, veterans, and working families — rely on SNAP benefits (food stamps) to survive. And now, with a federal shutdown dragging on, their lifeline is at risk.

According to a letter sent by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to states, November SNAP benefits may not be issued unless federal funds are released in time.

Some states — including Pennsylvania, Texas, New Jersey, New York, and Maryland — are already warning residents they may not receive benefits next month.

But here’s the truth: The money to protect SNAP benefits exists.

The USDA holds multi-year contingency funds — a $6 billion reserve — specifically designed to prevent food aid disruptions during a government shutdown. These funds could be released now to ensure benefits continue on schedule.

In past shutdowns, emergency funds were deployed. This time, no action has been taken — and millions may go hungry unless President Trump steps in.

We call on President Donald Trump and Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins to:

• Immediately release emergency SNAP contingency funds before the Nov 1 deadline;
• Publicly commit to protecting all SNAP recipients’ benefits during the shutdown;
• Ensure states can process and distribute benefits without delay or interruption.
   

Food isn’t optional. It’s not a partisan issue. It’s a matter of basic survival.

People living paycheck to paycheck are not responsible for this shutdown — but they are being asked to pay the price. Families should not wake up on November 1 to empty EBT cards and empty pantries.

Sign this petition if you believe hunger should never be a consequence of politics. Tell President Trump to act now — before it’s too late.