Feeding America Urges Immediate Action to Protect Federal Nutrition Programs

The Feeding America network is on the brink of a crisis, serving tens of millions of people who are struggling to access food due to the ongoing government shutdown. As the advocates and partners of these individuals, Feeding America emphasizes that the situation is not about politics, but about people who are forced to make impossible choices between food and other essential necessities. The organization urges federal leaders to take immediate action to protect federal nutrition programs, such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which are invaluable to those in need.

Key Takeaways:

• The Feeding America network serves tens of millions of people who are struggling to access food due to the government shutdown.
• The organization is on the brink of a crisis, where pantry shelves are empty and staff members and volunteers must turn people away, including veterans, seniors, and families with young children.
• Federal nutrition programs, such as SNAP, provide powerful protection of the health, stability, and dignity of families across the United States.
• Every dollar spent on food is an investment in people that strengthens families, farmers, and industry in America.
• Food is a fundamental right, and politics should not separate people from the food they need to thrive.
• Feeding America commits to an America where no one is hungry and supports people experiencing food insecurity through a nationwide network of food banks, statewide food bank associations, food pantries, and meal programs.

Statistics:

• Tens of millions of people rely on the Feeding America network for food assistance.
• Federal nutrition programs, such as SNAP, serve as a safeguard for the health, stability, and dignity of families across the United States.
• Every dollar spent on food is an investment in people that strengthens families, farmers, and industry in America.
• The cost of food insecurity is high, and without immediate action, the situation will become a reality for countless more people across the country.

Sources:

• Claire Babineaux-Fontenot, CEO of Feeding America (October 24, 2025)
• Feeding America (no date)
• USDA (no date)