Atlanta, GA, October 21, 2025
News Summary
The federal government shutdown has left over 1.3 million Georgians without Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for November, leading to increased local food security concerns. Government officials warn that if the shutdown continues, SNAP funding will be insufficient beyond October. Meanwhile, local food banks are experiencing unprecedented demand, prompting community organizations to provide food support. As uncertainty looms, Georgians reliant on SNAP are urged to remain informed of potential changes.
Atlanta, Georgia – Due to the ongoing federal government shutdown, more than a million Georgians will not receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits in November. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has stated that there will be “insufficient funds” for SNAP benefits after October if the shutdown continues.
The shutdown is currently entering its fourth week as of Wednesday. Approximately 1,356,493 Georgians, part of nearly 42 million Americans nationwide, rely on SNAP to help pay for groceries. The average SNAP benefit payment is $187 per month, equating to about $6 per day, provided on prepaid EBT cards.
The Georgia Department of Human Services (DHS) is closely monitoring the situation and has requested a project plan from their payment vendor for disbursing benefits post-shutdown. Although the DHS can still process new SNAP applications, November benefits will not be issued until the government reopens.
As the government shutdown progresses, it has already made it the second-longest shutdown on record. Some lawmakers are suggesting that it could surpass the previous duration of 35 days. In response to the situation, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp’s office has attributed the delays to Senate Democrats, referring to the circumstance as the “Schumer shutdown.” Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins has also criticized Senate minority leader Chuck Schumer regarding the SNAP funding situation.
SNAP is a federal program, but states are responsible for its administration. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that around 750,000 federal employees may be furloughed daily during the shutdown, costing approximately $400 million in daily compensation.
The Atlanta Community Food Bank has reported that their services are experiencing unprecedented demand, with many individuals seeking assistance already. Other states, such as Virginia, are advising SNAP recipients to conserve their remaining benefits, while Texas has indicated that November benefits could still be issued if a resolution occurs before October 27.
In light of these challenges, community organizations, including the Women’s International Grail, are stepping in to provide food support. They are planning to offer 500 Thanksgiving meals amidst the uncertainty surrounding SNAP benefits.
Key Facts About SNAP and the Shutdown
- Over 1.3 million Georgians will not receive SNAP benefits in November.
- The average SNAP benefit payment is $187 per month.
- The federal government shutdown is entering its fourth week.
- Approximately 1,356,493 Georgians rely on SNAP to help pay for groceries.
- SNAP is a federal program administered by the states.
Impact on Local Communities
The ongoing situation is putting pressure on local food banks and community organizations, as many are beginning to feel the strain from increased demand amid uncertain SNAP benefits. The Atlanta Community Food Bank’s experience is a testament to how deeply this federal program impacts local food security.
Future Outlook
As the shutdown continues, the situation remains fluid. Georgians who rely on SNAP benefits for their basic grocery needs face increasing uncertainty about their food security. Stakeholders are urged to keep themselves informed about potential changes as the federal government addresses its ongoing budgetary impasse.
FAQ
How many Georgians won’t receive SNAP benefits in November?
More than a million Georgians will not receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits in November.
What is the average SNAP benefit payment?
The average SNAP benefit payment is $187 per month, equating to about $6 per day.
How many people nationwide rely on SNAP?
Approximately 42 million Americans nationwide rely on SNAP to help pay for groceries.
What are community organizations doing to help?
Community organizations like the Women’s International Grail are stepping in to provide food support, planning to offer 500 Thanksgiving meals amid uncertainty surrounding SNAP benefits.
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Additional Resources
- 11 Alive: Georgia SNAP Benefits Update
- ABC News: States Start Halting SNAP Benefits Amid Shutdown
- WRDW: 1.4M Georgians Face Looming SNAP Cutoff Amid Shutdown
- WSBTV: Georgia SNAP Recipients Say They Won’t Receive Funds If Government Doesn’t Open by November
- Atlanta News First: SNAP Benefits Could End Next Month
- Wikipedia: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
- Google Search: SNAP benefits
- Google Scholar: SNAP benefits
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
- Google News: SNAP benefits shutdown
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
