Update on Federal SNAP Benefits and Food Resources for Families
DSCC can help our participant families find food pantries and other resources if the federal government shutdown continues.
Federal officials have notified all states that if the current federal government shutdown continues, funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as food stamps, will not be available for November. This means SNAP customers may not receive their November benefits unless the shutdown ends or other federal action occurs.
In past shutdowns, Congress resolved funding issues before families missed their benefits. However, this time, the situation remains uncertain. The State of Illinois is sharing this information to help families plan ahead and stay informed.
Illinois is awaiting further guidance from the federal government. The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) will post updates to the SNAP Federal Impact Center page on its website and share through official IDHS channels.
Where to Find Food Resources
If your family is affected by this change or needs food support, there are many local and statewide resources available:
- IDHS: Find Food website
- Find Food – We Got You Illinois
- Find Food – Feeding Illinois
- Find a Food Pantry or Food Bank in Illinois
- Chicago Food Programs – Greater Chicago Food Depository
- Illinois Department on Aging’s Provider Profile Search
- FoodFinder interactive food assistance map
- Find Food IL Community Food Map
- Freefood.org
- Findhelp.org resource locator
- 211 food programs and food benefits information
- USDA National Hunger Hotline at (866) 348-6479
These resources can help families locate nearby food pantries, meal programs and other nutrition supports. You can also find more information about local food pantries and other resources in our online Resource Directory.
If you have questions or need more assistance, please contact your Division of Specialized Care for Children (DSCC) Care Coordinator. We are here to help!