The political situation in the United States remains complicated following inflation data, the rising cost of living, and the government shutdown. Governor Maura Healey held a press conference in which she described the situation as President Donald Trump’s “cruel and insensitive decision” to cancel SNAP benefits for more than one million Massachusetts residents in November due to the federal government shutdown. According to the latest news, SNAP recipients in Massachusetts may be able to receive additional funding through the Healthy Eating Incentive Program (HIP).
In Massachusetts, SNAP recipients can receive additional funds through the Healthy Incentives Program (HIP)
With SNAP benefits frozen, many families are having to rely on food banks for basic necessities. As a result, food banks have already expressed concern about the impending surge in demand. U.S. Senator Ed Markey and Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley were also scheduled to meet with leaders of Massachusetts food banks at a press conference at Project Bread in Boston to highlight the efforts of local food banks and pantries to support communities impacted by the government shutdown. In Massachusetts, SNAP recipients can receive additional funds through the Healthy Incentives Program (HIP).
“More than one million people in the Bay State will lose their food assistance benefits next week”
The governor stated that 32% of SNAP beneficiaries are children, 31% are people with disabilities, and 26% are senior citizens. The program applies funds to purchases made with beneficiaries’ EBT cards when buying fruits and vegetables at participating farms. Specifically, “more than one million people in the Bay State will lose their food assistance benefits next week,” the senator declared, dismayed by the consequences of the government shutdown.
Authorities have warned that beneficiaries could lose the additional funds if their account balance reaches zero dollars
Specifically, in Massachusetts, those affected are among the most vulnerable. Therefore, Massachusetts residents who receive SNAP benefits do not need to apply for HIP, as it will be automatically applied. “They won’t be able to go to the store to buy the food they need to feed themselves and their families,” the governor explained. Authorities have warned that beneficiaries could lose the additional funds if their account balance reaches zero dollars. In other words, it’s important to be informed about all the details to avoid confusion. Healey stated that at every other time in the country’s history, when there has been a government shutdown, food assistance benefits have always continued because they are essential and Americans need access to them to live. “Make sure you have some balance available on your EBT card, even if it’s just a penny,” state officials advise.
The future of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is becoming a major concern
The state reminds residents that “if your SNAP balance is zero ($0.00), you will not be able to use HIP until funds become available again.” Healey stated that Trump’s decision will also affect supermarkets and farmers, who will not receive income from SNAP benefits, which are used in more than 5,500 stores and farms in Massachusetts alone. HIP offers monthly payments to beneficiaries, with the amount depending on the size of their household. And while Healey stated that no state can compensate for the money lost in SNAP benefits, he urges residents who do have the means to donate to their local food banks and pantries.
The money is issued on the first day of each month, regardless of when you receive your SNAP benefits. As long as you have funds on your EBT card, you can use them immediately. The future of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which helps approximately 1 in 8 Americans buy food, is becoming a major concern as time goes on and the government shutdown continues.
