Thousands of people rely on SNAP benefits every day to help purchase staple foods, but the government shutdown has eliminated this option for people. Since SNAP is fully federally funded, there are major delays, and SNAP won’t be funded until the government is reopened. 

Many families in Utah are stressed, since there hasn’t been any funding, people haven’t been able to get their SNAP benefits for November. SNAP benefits are a necessity in many people’s lives, and it is awful that they have had to go without this, and will have to continue without these benefits until they are funded again. 

Sophomore, Annie Weaver said, “That’s awful because people need this stuff and aren’t able to get it anymore.”

Even those who are not directly affected by this problem or have family members in this situation feel that it is awful and something needs to be done to fix this problem. No one should have to go without food, it is a necessity for everyone, and those who are not able to afford this need something to help support them through this hard time. 

Junior, Francisca Garate said, “I feel like everyone should have what they need, it’s a need for people and shouldn’t be taken away from them.”

Food banks across Utah have said they have seen more people coming in for food, which will lead to the problem of these food banks running out of supplies. So, what can we do to help fix this problem? 

Sophomore, Annie Weaver said, “Do a bunch of charities, donate and just help out”

Until the shutdown ends and funding is back for SNAP, families are being told to reach out for help and check for updates in hopes that SNAP benefits will come back soon. This has many people feared because the holidays are coming up and that is when people usually need the most help. For now it is just a waiting game and a stressful time for those who rely on these benefits.