SNAP Benefits and Food Resources

Federal Government Shutdown: SNAP Benefits Update

November Supplemental Nutrition Benefits Program (SNAP) benefits, also called food stamps, will not go out on time, according to the USDA website. That means that there will be a delay in getting SNAP benefits, starting November 1st.

Why are November SNAP Benefits delayed?

There are two main things affecting SNAP benefits right now:

  • The federal government shutdown: this impacts everyone receiving SNAP benefits

  • Changes to eligibility for SNAP benefits because of HR1 (The One Big Beautiful Bill): this impacts some people. Read our Changes to SNAP Benefits (Food Stamps) blog post to learn more.

How will customers of Community Pathways be impacted?

Customers who receive SNAP benefits will not get their November benefits on time and we are not sure when benefits will start again. Any funds currently on a SNAP card can be used at any point, including into November.

The delay in November SNAP benefits is due to the Federal Government shut down. We do not know when this will change. Only the President or Congress can release the funds. Once the government shut down ends or funds are released, Oregon will start to distribute those funds onto Oregon Trail Cards. Many states use the same Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) service which means it may take a few days for funds to be put on cards. Also due to processing times, people who get benefits later in the month may receive theirs first.  

Please read through the information on this page to learn more about what is happening, what to expect, and what you can do to find free food and meals while benefits are delayed. If you have questions or concerns, contact your personal agent (PA).

It is important that you check your mail on a daily basis for letters from Oregon’s Department of Human Services. These could include important updates about your SNAP benefits and require a response by a certain date and time. If you get a letter and have questions about what to do next, contact your PA.

We know this is a scary time for people and we are here to help!

Common Questions about SNAP Benefits:

  • If a person has a balance on their EBT card, will it roll over into November?

    • Yes.

  • There are rumors that EBT cards will not work in November. Is this true?

    • No.

  • If I’m applying right now for SNAP benefits, should I stop?

    • No, continue the process. Applications are still being accepted and processed.  

  • Is TANIF affected at this time?

    • Not at this time. Federal funding has been provided during November

  • Is WIC affected?

    • No. Federal funding has been provided for support during November.

  • Are free and reduced-price school meals affected?

    • No, those will continue.

Get the Latest News and Updates:

Find important information and updates about the federal government shutdown and SNAP benefits on these websites:

Where to Find Food Resources in Oregon

Find local food pantries, free food events, hot meals, produce, and more using these websites:

State-wide Food Resources

County-based Food Resources: Clackamas, Multnomah, Washington Counties

Portland Metro Area Food Resources

Here’s a list of food pantries and organizations that offer free groceries and meals to individuals and families living in the Portland metro area. Use Oregon Food Bank’s Food Finder website (oregonfoodfinder.org) to find a food pantry in your area.

More Information from ODHS

Materials from the October 23rd ODHS webinar about the Federal Government Shutdown and November SNAP Benefits:

Presentation Slides

Video Recording