The Trump administration has directed state agencies not to process individuals’ November Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) until further notice because of the government shutdown.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, SNAP provides assistance to nearly 42 million Americans. This federal program assists low-income families monthly in purchasing food. Families who qualify are given an Electronic Benefits Transfer, or EBT, card, which is used to buy food at most grocery stores and farmers markets.
Unless Congress approves new funding, SNAP benefits will not be distributed this month. However, any existing balances on families’ EBT cards can still be used, but new funds will not be added.
This decision has led millions of people uncertain of how they will afford food in the next month. College students could also be at risk from the loss. In 2024, the Hope Center for Student Basic Needs found in a study that 41% of students experience food insecurity. Many college students rely on SNAP benefits to cover grocery costs – while also having to pay tuition, rent and other expenses.
The college students who do rely on SNAP benefits may experience trouble within school. From focusing to attending class, there is a chance of a decrease in student participation.
At Baker University, the CARE Corner has various food and toiletry items available to all students who may need them. It is located on the second floor of the Union, in the Student Affairs Office.
Local food pantries in the Douglas County area are always accepting donations to provide for anyone experiencing food insecurity. In Baldwin City, there are a few different food pantry options. New Life Assembly of God and Baldwin First United Methodist Church are two examples. Just Food in Lawrence is open four days a week to anyone in need of food. There are also mobile food pantries in Lawrence, including Harvesters, which occurs at the Douglas County Fairgrounds on scheduled dates.
With the government shutdown still underway, both students and families remain unsure of when these benefits will return.
