Due to the government shutdown, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will not be distributed to recipients on November 1, 2025. This move is projected to negatively impact 42 million Americans, with the most vulnerable of recipients being children, the elderly, and the disabled. Anyone paying even the slightest bit of attention has seen the onslaught of hard times inching toward us for months. It is now undoubtedly clear that hard times have arrived.
There is a bevy of reactions swirling online and across media platforms, offering think pieces and explaining that this latest trial could drastically impact not only recipients but also the economy. While acknowledging that duality is ever-present, we must determine the true priority — to ensure our communities don’t suffer as a casualty of politicians trying to sort out their differences. Community is, and has always been, the solution to our survival, despite the circumstances meant to hinder us.
Plainly speaking, what we do next is to get back to the basics of intentional community engagement and participation. It looks like ensuring our elders, children, and people with disabilities are equipped with food, transportation to the store, money and whatever else the current reality necessitates.
Community isn’t always convenient, but the outcome more often than not surpasses the required input. It is our duty to support our families and the communities that raised us in any way we can. If you’re looking for ways to get involved, start here:
Supply Local Resources
Find a local food bank, food pantry, or community fridge to donate food, money and time to support. Each resource thrives on community involvement, and in unprecedented times like the present, they require more support than ever.
Volunteer Time
Search for nonprofit organizations near you and ask where you can lend a hand. These organizations are likely stretched thin trying to ensure community members in need are provided for. While not everyone can donate funds, volunteering your time goes a long way.
Support Vulnerable Family Members
Get the family together to discuss how best to support the more vulnerable members. Whether it’s in the form of offering rides to the grocery store, giving money toward groceries, dropping off leftover food, or simply asking what they need — it all helps.