As the federal government shutdown continues, the focus of food stamp recipients turns to what they can expect as the SNAP program is federally funded. Department of Children and Family Services Deputy Assistant Secretary Sammy Guillory said February benefits are coming this week.
“We have to issue them before January 20th in order for the feds to be able to pay for the benefits. The benefits are 100% federally funded,” said Guillory.
Guillory said there is uncertainty as to what happens with the program beyond February.
“Beyond February, it’s a question mark for us, as well as all states. It all depends on the federal government. Right now, we do not know anything about March,” said Guillory.
Guillory said it’s important for recipients to know these are not extra benefits, and this will be their only government assistance for food for February.
“They will not receive more benefits in February. Typically they get benefits once a month on a certain date, and they have to stretch these benefits and budget accordingly,” said Guillory.
