The nation’s largest food assistance program, SNAP, has been at the center of a political showdown that’s left millions of Americans — 2 million in Pennsylvania — wondering how they’ll put food on the table.

Here’s what you need to know:

1. SNAP benefits froze Nov. 1

The federal government shutdown that began Oct. 1 halted monthly SNAP payments starting Nov. 1. That’s a big deal because SNAP, often called food stamps, helps about 42 million Americans — roughly 1 in 8 people nationwide. For many families, this program is the difference between eating and going hungry .

2. Court rulings may affect the program

Two federal judges ordered the USDA to keep SNAP funds flowing, forcing the Trump administration to use an emergency fund to partially cover November benefits.

But here’s the

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