YWCA Columbus Condemns SNAP Funding Halt Amid Federal Shutdown

The ongoing federal government shutdown has halted SNAP payments for November, placing an emergent strain on Ohio families who rely on this critical food assistance program. At YWCA Columbus, we stand in solidarity with the 1.4 million Ohioans facing sudden losses in their grocery budgets, including many of our Family Center and all of our Women's Residency program residents. Available contingency funds have not yet been authorized for use by the current administration, diverging from past bipartisan actions that ensured SNAP benefit continuity during shutdowns. This unprecedented pause threatens the health, dignity, and stability of our most vulnerable neighbors.

Hunger is a form of violence—a critical crisis demanding urgent government action. When families cannot access food, they must redirect limited resources away from other essentials like rent and childcare, resulting in more evictions, homelessness, workforce instability, and economic strain.

While the State of Ohio has mobilized $25 million in emergency food assistance and relief funds to mitigate this gap, it cannot replace the full value of SNAP. We emphatically urge elected leaders at all levels to act swiftly to authorize the full release of SNAP funding without delay, ensuring that all eligible families receive the comprehensive benefits they need for food security and stability during this critical time.

YWCA Columbus remains committed to supporting families through these challenges and urges the community, partners, and policymakers to unite in preventing hunger and hardship across Ohio. Now, more than ever, we must uphold our shared commitment to equity, justice, and dignified care for all.