Additional Update November 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 November 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 November benefits. December 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 November benefits fully, which could impact neighbors who receive benefits later in the month.
November 7, 2025 Update 12:00 p.m.:
SNAP Benefits Remain Suspended in November; Food Bank Support Critical
As of November 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, November 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 October 17
-SNAP payments were not issued on November 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.
On October 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.
FAQs
What is happening to SNAP benefits?
When will SNAP benefit payments resume?
Full November SNAP payments in Pennsylvania resumed on Friday, November 7. Recipients who missed an expected payment in the first 6 days of the month should have their benefits loaded on their EBT cards by Saturday morning. The rest of November SNAP payments will continue on schedule, unless the federal courts grant the Trump administration’s appeal to stop the flow of SNAP payments.
We do not know if benefits will be issued in December if the federal government is still shutdown by December 1.
Can I spend SNAP money that is already loaded on my EBT card?
What do I need to do to remain eligible for SNAP?
How can I protect myself from SNAP scams?
Can I still apply for SNAP?
What other benefits will be impacted by the shutdown?
-Senior Food Boxes are expected to continue as usual.
-WIC benefits have been funded for October but are at risk for November.
-School, childcare and afterschool meals are expected to continue as usual for now.
-LIHEAP payments are currently frozen. Enrollment opens December 3. If you need assistance now, please reach out to us or your utility provider to request help.
Where can I get help with food?
The Food Bank and our partners are still here to help. On our website you can read more about our on-site pantry, The Market in Duquesne, PA, find one of our monthly distribution locations, or locate a food pantry near you.
Have questions or need additional assistance?
How can I help?