On November 6, a federal court ordered the USDA to release full SNAP funding. Following this decision, Governor Janet Mills directed Maine DHHS’s Office for Family Independence (OFI) to distribute full benefits from November 10 through November 14. At this point, households already enrolled in SNAP should have received their full November benefit amount.
Individuals who applied for and were approved for SNAP between late October and November 6 are receiving reduced benefits, as their approvals occurred while USDA guidance required partial payments. This will continue for new applicants this week.
More information about the recent changes to SNAP, visit: OFI Federal Shutdown FAQ
Auburn, Maine – On October 31, federal judges in Massachusetts and Rhode Island ruled that the federal government must use contingency funds to provide SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits for the month of November.
However, on November 3, the USDA notified states that the available funds would cover around 50% of regular SNAP benefits for the month.
This reduction in SNAP benefits will have a profound impact on families across Maine. For many households, the loss of 50% or more of their regular monthly benefits will be devastating. In Maine, nearly 12.5% of the population depends on SNAP, and in certain counties like Androscoggin, Aroostook, Piscataquis, Somerset, and Washington, more than 20% of the population relies on this crucial program.
Good Shepherd Food Bank is working closely with our partners across the state to prepare for a spike in need this month and beyond.
Our response to date includes:
Emergency Support: Governor Janet Mills and the John T. Gorman Foundation gifted $650,000 directly to Good Shepherd Food Bank to support our nearly 600 partner agencies. We immediately distributed $1,000 emergency food credits to all food pantry, school pantry, meal site, and shelter partners to help prepare for increased need in November.
Increased Fresh Produce: Expanding the amount of fresh produce available at no cost for all partner agencies to order.
Early TEFAP Allocations: Supporting agencies that wish to receive their December TEFAP allocations early to better meet community needs.
Donation Partnerships: Working with retailers of all sizes to encourage donations of excess food.
Advocacy: Good Shepherd Food Bank President Heather Paquette and Director of Government Affairs Amy Sassi went to Washington, D.C., to advocate for the urgent release of delayed November SNAP benefits and meet with Maine’s congressional delegation to discuss the impacts of cuts and potential solutions.
Community Giving: Partnering with donors — both new and longtime supporters — who are increasing their contributions to help neighbors in need.
We are grateful for the incredible outpouring of concern and support that we have received from across the state.