Summary
Some people in the U.S. are helping their neighbors buy groceries because the government paused food aid due to a shutdown. The program affected is called SNAP, which helps 42 million people pay for food. Volunteers, known as "grocery buddies," are stepping in to assist those in need until the benefits are restored.
Key Facts
- A government shutdown paused SNAP benefits, affecting millions of Americans who use the program to buy food.
- SNAP, also known as food stamps, helps mainly seniors, people with disabilities, and families with children.
- Volunteers across the country are using social media to connect and provide groceries to those at risk of running out of benefits.
- Some people give gift cards, while others shop for groceries and deliver them to those in need.
- In Chicago, Alicia Spradley created a group to support local SNAP recipients until the benefits return.
- A federal judge ordered the U.S. Department of Agriculture to use emergency funds to keep SNAP going.
- It is unclear how the current administration will handle the judge's order.
