New York residents began receiving full monthly benefits under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) for November, even as the federal government shutdown continues to cast doubt over future payments.
Here’s what you need to know:
• Under an order from Governor Kathy Hochul, the state’s agencies were directed to proceed with full benefits for November. “Folks have already started receiving full November SNAP benefits in the state of New York… and that’s expected to continue over the course of this week,” said John Liddle, Commissioner of Health and Human Services and Social Services in Sullivan County.
• The deployment follows a federal district court ruling requiring full funding of SNAP payments, which was temporarily stayed by the Supreme Court of the United States.
• Despite the state’s advance, the backdrop remains precarious: a looming lapse in federal SNAP funding due to the shutdown, which led New York to declare a state of emergency and mobilise $65 million in state funds to support food banks and vulnerable households.
• In Sullivan County, where nearly 15 % of the population — about 12,000 residents — rely on SNAP, Liddle said local agencies are working overtime to keep up with the shifting guidance. “It’s a lot of work, I’ll be honest … but local agencies have really stepped up,” he said.
• He warned that while SNAP benefits are moving, the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) remains “in the dark,” adding: “We have no way forward for HEAP benefits right now because that’s completely dependent on the shutdown ending.”
• Residents still can apply for SNAP and use their EBT cards; unused benefits remain available. However, continued lapse of federal funding could mean delays or reductions in future months.
For help, New Yorkers can visit the website of the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) or their local Social Services department.
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