USA TODAY: Will SNAP benefits be sent in November? ‘Inflection point’ is near, USDA says

By Melina Kahn, October 22, 2025

Millions of Americans who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) could be left scrambling for food come November if the government shutdown continues.

George Matysik, executive director of Share Food Program, a Philadelphia food bank, told USA TODAY that with the lapse in SNAP benefit funding, his organization is ramping up donations and buying additional food.

However, Matysik emphasized that food banks were already operating under federal funding cuts earlier this year before the government shutdown.

“The amount of food that SNAP provides has been estimated to be nine times larger than the entire food bank network combined, so to think that we at food banks alone can be the sole resource to pick up this slack for government’s failure in this moment, it’s very unreasonable,” Matysik said.

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About Share Food Program

Share Food Program is the leading hunger relief organization in the Greater Philadelphia region, working to eradicate food insecurity through food distribution, education, and advocacy. Through partnerships with over 800 schools and 360+ community-based organizations and partner pantries, Share Food Program feeds hundreds of thousands of neighbors in need each month. 

To learn more and get involved, visit sharefoodprogram.org, give us a call 215-223-2220, or follow us on Facebook @sharefood and Instagram @sharefoodphilly.