Impact of Government Shutdown on SNAP Access in Illinois
Nearly two million Illinoisans are at risk of losing access to federal food assistance due to the ongoing government shutdown.
According to the Department of Agriculture, which oversees the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), benefits will not be issued on November 1 due to the congressional stalemate.
"the well has run dry"
In September, approximately 1.86 million Illinois residents were enrolled in SNAP, accounting for nearly 15% of the population.
- Alexander and Pulaski counties had the highest reliance on food aid, with about 30.1% of residents using the program.
- In contrast, suburban McHenry County had a significantly lower rate of 6.5%.
Author's summary: Millions of Illinoisans may lose food aid due to shutdown.