Flint families face food insecurity as SNAP benefits are paused

FLINT, Mich. — The effects of the government shutdown on Capitol Hill are being felt right here at home, as many Michigan families brace for a pause in their food assistance benefits.

In an Oct. 23, 2025 press release, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) announced that November Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits have been put on hold due to the ongoing federal government shutdown.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) informed state officials that there may be limited funds available to cover full November SNAP benefits for roughly 42 million people nationwide. As a result, the agency directed Michigan to pause all November benefit issuances until further notice.

The delay could leave thousands of Michigan families at risk of food insecurity. SNAP, the nation’s largest food assistance program, provides crucial aid to about 1.4 million residents, nearly 13 percent of Michigan households. Of those, 43% are families with children, and 36 percent include older adults or people with disabilities.

Acording to the MDHHS Green Book Report of Key Program Statistics, there were 82,856 SNAP recipients in Genesee County as of September.

“The impact of households losing SNAP benefits will be felt around the state,” said
Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS director. “SNAP is more than a food assistance program; it’s a
lifeline for many Michigan families. It helps families put nutritious food on the table,
supports local farmers and grocers, and strengthens our communities and economy.
We are strongly disappointed by the USDA’s decision to delay this assistance, and in
Michigan we will do what we can to help blunt this impact.”

To find additional resources:

• Dial 2-1-1 or visit Find Help – Michigan 2-1-1 for free, confidential assistance
  and referrals to local food programs and support services.
• Visit the Food Bank Council of Michigan to locate nearby food banks and learn
  about additional hunger relief efforts.

MDHHS encourages SNAP participants to contact their local MDHHS office or visit MI Bridges for the latest updates on benefit status.