The Arkansas Department of Human Services is advising SNAP recipients to prepare for a potential delay or disruption in November benefits if the federal government shutdown continues.
DHS says it is awaiting guidance from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which administers SNAP benefits. At this time, the shutdown may prevent November payments from being issued on schedule.
Officials are encouraging families to identify local food pantries, churches, and community organizations that can provide temporary assistance. The Arkansas Foodbank offers an online tool to help locate nearby resources. Recipients are also advised to reach out to friends or family for support, and to use any accrued SNAP funds to stock up on shelf-stable foods before November.
“SNAP is a critical program that helps ensure families all across our state have access to nutritious foods, and even a brief disruption is problematic,” said DHS Secretary Janet Mann. “Arkansans have a history of coming together to help each other in difficult times. Please check on friends, family, and neighbors and donate time or money to food banks if you are able.”
The shutdown could also delay the processing of applications and renewals, though recipients should continue to report household changes and submit required paperwork. Other state programs, including ARHOME and ARKids First, are not expected to be affected, as they are funded through the end of the year.
As of September 1, more than 222,000 Arkansans in over 118,000 households were receiving SNAP benefits.
For updates, visit humanservices.arkansas.gov/u/SNAP.
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