Kentuckians urged to prepare as federal SNAP benefits could be paused November 1

LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – With federal funding in question, millions of Americans—including thousands here in Central and Eastern Kentucky—could see a temporary halt to their monthly SNAP food benefits starting November 1.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has warned that SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) payments may be delayed or paused entirely if Congress fails to pass a spending bill before the new month begins. That uncertainty is putting pressure on families who rely on the program to put food on the table.

Local food banks and nonprofits are already preparing for a possible surge in demand. God’s Pantry Food Bank, which serves more than 50 counties across Central and Eastern Kentucky, says it’s bracing for higher traffic in the coming weeks and is encourag