Michigan’s SNAP Benefits Paused: Where to Get Food Help Right Now

As Michigan braces for a pause in federal food assistance, leaders statewide are moving fast to keep families fed. Nearly 1.4 million residents, including thousands here in Genesee County, depend on SNAP benefits each month. With those benefits halted by the ongoing federal shutdown, state and local officials are stepping up.

Statewide Action to Fill the Food Gap

The Michigan Senate has approved a $71 million emergency plan to help fill the gap, with most of the funds going directly to EBT cards and food banks. Governor Gretchen Whitmer also directed $4.5 million in immediate aid and expanded the Double Up Food Bucks program to help families stretch their grocery dollars.

READ MORE: SNAP Payments Halted for 1.4 Michiganders  

Meanwhile, the Michigan House is weighing additional funding as the state’s attorney general joins other states in a lawsuit pushing the USDA to restore SNAP payments.

Flint Launches Local Food Voucher Program

Here at home, Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley launched a food voucher program in partnership with the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan. Eligible residents can get up to two vouchers a month, each good for a 30-pound box of food. Local agencies like GCCARD, Senior Services, Veterans Services, and faith-based groups are also working to fill the gap.

Where to Find Food Assistance

The Food Bank of Eastern Michigan works with more than 600 community partners across 22 counties to make sure families don’t go hungry. If you or someone you know needs help, you can use their online Agency Locator (click here) to find nearby food pantries or check the mobile pantry calendar for upcoming distributions. You can also contact the Food Bank for help with SNAP benefits or dial 211 to connect with other local resources.

Get our free mobile app

Mid-Michigan has always come together in tough times. Once again, neighbors are helping neighbors, proving that when it comes to feeding our community, we’ve got this.