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With the federal government shutdown causing delays in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, Greene County is reminding residents that local food pantries are open to help those in need. The shutdown has halted November SNAP benefits, leaving many families without their usual food assistance.
Greene County officials have highlighted several food pantries available to residents, including the Community Food Pantry in Athens, Resurrection Lutheran Church in Cairo, and the Catskill Food Pantry in Catskill. A full list of available food pantries, including their operating hours, can be found on the Greene County website.
The delay in SNAP benefits is part of a larger issue stemming from the ongoing federal government shutdown, which began on October 1 due to disagreements in Washington over health insurance premiums. According to the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, the shutdown has frozen funding for SNAP and other food assistance programs. As a result, SNAP benefits cannot be issued until the shutdown ends or alternative federal funding is provided.
Governor Kathy Hochul has declared a state of emergency in New York and committed over $106 million to support food programs expected to see increased demand during the SNAP pause. This funding includes new allocations and fast-tracked grants for food providers. Hochul has also called on businesses to contribute donations and plans to deploy student volunteers to help distribute food aid.
Residents are encouraged to utilize local food pantries and other available resources during this time. For more information on SNAP and food assistance, visit the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance website.