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Final Update Novembre 18, 2025 at 3:30 p.m.

THANK YOU: Rising Together After the Shutdown

Over the past six weeks, Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank has once again proven the strength of community. In response to the recent government shutdown, our donors, volunteers, partners and staff mobilized quickly to meet a surge in need. From expanded food distributions to direct support for federal workers, the response was swift, compassionate and unwavering. Now, with SNAP benefits secured through Septembre 2026, we welcome a moment of relief.

However, prior to the shutdown, SNAP changes mandated by HR1 were set to be implemented and those now are front and center. Individuals not meeting work requirements may be limited to just three months of SNAP benefits over a three-year period. Click here to learn more about these changes.

Our work is far from over. To every donor, volunteer, advocate, partner and staff member, thank you for you unwavering commitment to our mission during this most recent, and all times of crisis.

Additional Update Novembre 7, 2025 at 4:00 p.m.

As of today, SNAP benefits in PA are starting to be paid in full. PA DHS has already issued benefits to all participants who should have received their Novembre benefits between 11/3 and 11/7. Benefits owed by or before 11/7 should be posted to EBT cards by midnight tonight. Participants who typically receive benefits later in the month should receive benefits on their normal issuance date unless a federal court issues an order to stop those payments.

Note: this only applies to Novembre benefits. Décembre benefits are still at risk unless the federal government reopens. If you are unsure what your typical issuance date is, use this tool.

We expect many of our neighbors will continue to need food assistance as we lead into the holidays. The federal government is appealing the court decision to fund Novembre benefits fully, which could impact neighbors who receive benefits later in the month.

Novembre 7, 2025 Update 12:00 p.m.:

SNAP Benefits Remain Suspended in Novembre; Food Bank Support Critical

As of Novembre 7, the distribution of new SNAP benefits remains suspended in Pennsylvania due to the ongoing federal government shutdown, leaving nearly 2 million residents without critical food assistance, including more than 340,000 in the Food Bank’s 11-county service area. While the USDA has announced limited emergency funding, Novembre SNAP payments will be significantly reduced- at most, 65% of the usual amount- and some households will receive no benefits at all.

What’s Changed Since Octobre 17
-SNAP payments were not issued on Novembre 1.
-The USDA is using contingency funds, but these cover only $5 billion nationally, far short of the $8 billion needed for full benefits.
-The shutdown is now on its 37th day, and the state budget impasse continues.

What This Means for Our Community
-Families with children, seniors and people with disabilities are disproportionately affected.
-Food insecurity is rising sharply, and our Food Bank is seeing record demand.
-We are doing everything we can, but the charitable food network cannot replace federal assistance. For every 1 meal the Food Bank provides, SNAP provides 9.

We remain committed to serving our neighbors during this crisis. No one should go hungry because of political gridlock. Thank you for standing with us as we work to meet this unprecedented need. We will continue updating this page as new developments occur

The following content was originally published on 10/23/2025. Updates to the FAQs section were made on 11/7/2025 and 11/18/2025.

On Octobre 17, the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services announced that Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits will be paused until the federal government shutdown ends and funds are released to the Commonwealth.  

SNAP, formerly known as food stamps, is the nation’s first and best defense against hunger, providing 9 meals for every 1 Food Banks can provide. With $366 million in monthly benefits for two million Pennsylvanians in jeopardy, Pennsylvania’s charitable food network is preparing for an unprecedented surge in need. We cannot fill this gap alone.  

This crisis comes at a time when our Food Bank is already experiencing rising demand and reduced resources. Earlier this year, the USDA cut $5 million in USDA Commodities and direct funding for the purchase of food from Pennsylvania farmers, manufacturers and growers. Now, we are heading into the holiday season, a time when the need for assistance peaks annually. In addition, Pennsylvania is the only state without an enacted state budget. The ongoing state budget impasse has halted critical funding that helps us purchase fresh produce, dairy and protein products for local distribution.   

What will missing SNAP payments mean for our neighbors? Nearly 80% of SNAP participants live in families with children, seniors or people with disabilities. If SNAP payments are delayed, our most vulnerable neighbors will face extreme hardship. The Food Bank and our pantry partners will do everything we can to help provide food to our neighbors in need, but the charitable food network was not designed to replace federal food assistance. If you or someone you know needs assistance, the Food Bank is open and here to help.  

Find food near you by using the Find Food Guide on our website at pittsburghfoodbank.org/findfood or calling 2-1-1. 

Please find answers to several frequently asked questions below. 

FAQ

What do I need to do to remain eligible for SNAP?

How can I protect myself from SNAP scams?

Where can I get help with food?

Have questions or need additional assistance?

How can I help?