New Hampshire Plans $2M Food Aid for 75,000 SNAP Recipients Amid Shutdown

With the federal government shutdown ongoing, New Hampshire officials have developed a contingency plan to support over 75,000 SNAP recipients who risk losing food assistance benefits starting November 1. The plan involves partnering with the New Hampshire Food Bank to expand mobile food pantries and increase access at traditional food pantries, providing a temporary safety net for low-income families. This initiative, expected to cost up to $2 million from state funds, requires approval from the Fiscal Committee and the Executive Council. Governor Kelly Ayotte emphasized the importance of these measures to ensure food access while urging federal politicians to resolve the shutdown and restore critical programs like SNAP and WIC. Similarly, Vermont lawmakers pledged to fully fund SNAP and LIHEAP benefits during the shutdown, highlighting regional efforts to mitigate the impact. Nationwide, over 42 million Americans face potential loss of food assistance if the impasse continues, underscoring the urgency of federal action.