SNAP Update and Resource Links

Federal Shutdown Impacts SNAP Recipients

The federal government shutdown, which began October 1, 2025, has disrupted nutrition assistance nationwide—halting November SNAP benefits for millions of Americans, including an estimated 440,000 Minnesotans who depend on the program for essential food support.
 

According to the Minnesota Department of Children, Youth & Families (DCYF), November SNAP and MFIP food benefits will be paused until the shutdown ends or new federal guidance is issued. Cash portions of MFIP will continue to be distributed.

This lapse will create severe hardship for residents and caregivers alike. CMCOA encourages partners and community members to share available food resources and connect individuals in need to Minnesota’s robust network of food banks and assistance programs.
 

State Response: Emergency Support for Food Shelves

Governor Tim Walz and Commissioner Tikki Brown announced $4 million in one-time state funding to support Minnesota and Tribal food shelves in response to the shutdown’s impact on SNAP and MFIP food benefits.
 

In addition, Fiscal Year 2026 grants from the Minnesota Food Shelf Program and Regional Food Banks Grants Program—along with one-time supplemental funding—will begin distribution in November. These investments build on earlier state efforts to meet record demand for emergency food assistance.
 

Minnesota Food Resources

State & Navigation Help

• United Way 211 (24/7): Call 211, text your ZIP code to 898-211, or visit online for food programs and nearby resources.

• MN DCYF – Federal Shutdown Info: Latest state guidance on SNAP/MFIP during the shutdown.

• Hunger Solutions – Find Help Map: Search local food shelves, distributions, and meals statewide.

• Minnesota Aging Pathways: Call 1-800-333-2433 or visit MinnesotaAgingPathways.org to connect with local resources for older adults, caregivers, and families.

Regional Food Banks & Networks

• Second Harvest Heartland: Find Food Locator – Twin Cities and surrounding areas.

• Channel One Regional Food Bank: Get Help – Southeast Minnesota.

• Second Harvest Northland: Find Assistance – Northeast MN and Northwest WI.

• North Country Food Bank: Partner Network – Northwest and West-Central Minnesota.

• The Food Group: Food Access Programs – Statewide partners and food shelf grants.

Additional Directories

• Feeding America – Minnesota Overview.

• Minnesota Food Banks Directory – County-level listings of food pantries and meal programs.

A Reminder of the Human Impact

Currently, more than 440,000 Minnesotans rely on SNAP, including 36% children and 18% older adults—a sobering reminder of how deeply this crisis affects households across the state.

CMCOA joins advocates across Minnesota in urging federal leaders to restore SNAP benefits immediately and provide stability for families, caregivers, and older adults who depend on this critical support to afford groceries and maintain health.