Halpin warns of potential SNAP funding halt on Nov. 1

With one in five of his constituents in Western Illinois receiving SNAP benefits, State Senator Mike Halpin is warning people of the dire and immediate impact of the potential halt of SNAP benefits starting Nov. 1

“A significant portion of residents in Western Illinois could lose key food assistance support due to the federal government shutdown,” said Halpin (D-Rock Island). “The federal administration could be funding SNAP benefits for November onward, but are actively choosing not to. The money is there. I condemn this inaction and call on those able in the Western Illinois community to donate to their local food bank and check on their neighbors.”

SNAP provides critical support for children, seniors, veterans and individuals with disabilities, offering the nutrition they need to live healthy, productive lives. The federal government shutdown threatens to halt these benefits immediately, putting millions at risk of food insecurity – including 42,168 people in the 36^th Senate District. Food banks like River Bend food bank are expecting a large impact.

“River Bend Food Bank serves a region of more than one million people, and today we are facing the highest level of food insecurity in four years,” said Chris Ford, president and CEO of River Bend Food Bank. “An estimated 137,000 individuals—neighbors, families, and children—are struggling to put food on the table, placing unprecedented strain on our network. The government shutdown and loss of SNAP benefits in November will impact approximately 65,000 people in our service area, pushing demand beyond our current capacity. This is a critical moment for thousands who simply need to eat. We urge leaders to find a solution that ensures no one in our community goes hungry.”

Halpin is coordinating with state officials and community organizations to prepare for potential disruptions and to ensure vulnerable populations have access to emergency food assistance. Watch Senator Halpin’s full warning here.