The government shutdown is a problem not only for political parties but also for ordinary citizens. It’s a particularly significant problem for low-income families who rely on government assistance to make ends meet. As the shutdown continues, millions of Californians will face delays or losses in their food assistance benefits. Specifically, without federal funding for CalFresh, more than 5.5 million Californians could lose their benefits or face delays in receiving assistance starting November 1st.
This shutdown is causing, among other things, delays for families who depend on CalFresh
This lack of agreement between the Republican and Democratic parties is leading to one of the longest government shutdowns in U.S. political history. The CalFresh program, whose November payments hang by a thread due to political uncertainty, is largely responsible for the problem. Without food assistance, children, entire families, seniors, and veterans will be unable to afford a basic necessity like food. This shutdown is causing, among other things, delays for families who depend on CalFresh.
If millions of people stop spending this money in these businesses, it’s only logical that retailers will feel the consequences
There are certain triggers for this government shutdown. Let’s start by talking about the economy. Aid is intended for disadvantaged families and individuals so they can cover basic needs. This is how programs like SNAP benefits come about. These benefits allow families to buy and, ultimately, spend money in supermarkets and local stores. If millions of people stop spending this money in these businesses, it’s only logical that retailers will feel the consequences.
The California National Guard will be deployed to support food banks in anticipation of increased demand
On the other hand, food banks are already sounding the alarm about the potential and imminent surge of people who will flock to these centers to obtain food. In this regard, the California National Guard will be deployed (without public safety duties) to support food banks in anticipation of increased demand, according to official sources. While CalFresh benefits for October are covered thanks to initial funding, the program’s continuation in November depends on congressional approval of additional funds, which remains pending.
Trump Administration has already stated that it will not use the emergency funds
On the other hand, there is an emergency fund for cases like this, in which certain policies that significantly affect citizens are suspended. But the Trump Administration has already stated that it will not use those funds. Given this situation, California is accelerating $80 million earmarked for local food banks, money approved by Democrats in this year’s state budget. This is because the U.S. Department of Agriculture lacks the legal authority to transfer the federal funds that cover 100% of the CalFresh program.
The holiday season is approaching, and specifically, Thanksgiving, a holiday centered around food and family, is coming up in November
It’s also important to keep in mind that the holiday season is approaching, and specifically, Thanksgiving, a holiday centered around food and family, is coming up in November. Given this, and considering the high inflation the country is experiencing, food prices are only going to rise, and those with fewer resources won’t be able to afford it. In California, the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) has instructed counties to alert residents about the possibility of payment delays. It’s estimated that 42 million people nationwide could lose benefits or face delays in essential food assistance due to the government shutdown. Ultimately, this government shutdown has put low-income families on high alert, as it’s unclear whether they will receive aid and, if not, when the delayed payments will arrive. The uncertainty is palpable.
