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Hunger Crisis Looms as Government Shutdown Threatens SNAP Funding

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

As the federal government shutdown persists, nearly 200,000 Western Pennsylvanians, including those with disabilities, veterans, and families with children, face the prospect of going hungry due to the potential shutdown of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) has joined over 200 House Democrats in urging the Agriculture Department to use emergency funds to keep SNAP benefits flowing and avoid a hunger crisis.

Key Takeaways:

  • Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) has joined over 200 House Democrats in a letter urging the Agriculture Department to use emergency funds to keep SNAP benefits flowing and avoid a hunger crisis.
  • Almost 75,000 people in Pennsylvania's 17th Congressional District are enrolled in SNAP, with the vast majority being families with kids, seniors, and people with disabilities, including veterans.
  • The program provides assistance to roughly 2 million Pennsylvanians, with 42 million Americans potentially impacted if the Trump Administration refuses to use contingency funds.
  • The Administration has already cut SNAP funding by $186 billion earlier this year, making the impending shutdown even more catastrophic for millions of Americans.
  • Congressman Deluzio has expressed his opinion that refusing to use contingency funds and transfer authority to fund November SNAP benefits would be "unacceptable to play politics with America's hungry seniors, veterans, and families."

Statistics:

  • Nearly 75,000 people in Pennsylvania's 17th Congressional District are enrolled in SNAP.
  • The program provides assistance to roughly 2 million Pennsylvanians.
  • 42 million Americans would be impacted if the Trump Administration refuses to use contingency funds.
  • The Administration has already cut SNAP funding by $186 billion earlier this year.
  • 213 House Democrats signed a letter with Congressman Deluzio urging the Agriculture Secretary to use contingency funds.

Sources:

  • [Source: Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) - PA Congressman's Press Release]
  • [Source: House Democrats' Letter - Signed by Congressman Deluzio and 213 colleagues]

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