Iowa families who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program are beginning to see relief as federal benefits are restored this week following a record-breaking 44-day government shutdown.

Iowa Health and Human Services announced that full November SNAP benefits are being loaded onto EBT cards and are expected to be available to all recipients by Friday, Nov. 14. The department encouraged households to check their card balances before making purchases by calling the number on the back of their card or using the ConnectEBT app or website .

The shutdown halted the distribution of SNAP benefits earlier this month, triggering a surge in demand at local food pantries. Kathy Underhill, CEO of the Des Moines Area Religious Council, said the organization saw a 55% increase in visitor

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