Here is what you need to know:
The government shutdown ended on November 12th, and SNAP funding is secure through September 2026.
- SNAP is issued over several days based on the last digit of each recipient’s Social Security number. All SNAP clients will get benefits on their scheduled date at their full amount.
- People should continue to check their balances by calling the number on the back of their EBT card. Benefits for the month may first appear on EBT cards as “pending”. Pending balances cannot be used to purchase food.
- Residents with balances on their cards should use them to purchase food.
- December SNAP benefits will be sent on their normal scheduled dates at their full amount.
- New SNAP applicants who are approved will get their SNAP benefits in the next few days.
- For more information and updates, see the DTA website >
- SNAP enrollment remains open. The DTA and the Food Bank’s SNAP Enrollment team are continuing to help people apply for benefits. Call our SNAP team at 413-992-6204.
The Shutdown’s Impact
This past month proved what we’ve always known: SNAP is a lifeline.
When that lifeline frays, the Food Bank and the food assistance network feel the strain. The ripple effects continue, and our focus now is on replenishing our shelves, supporting our partner pantries in every way possible, and continuing to advocate for strong food assistance policies, because hunger should never depend on politics.
Thank you for standing with us. We are grateful to everyone who has stepped up to meet this challenge alongside us, providing funds, food, time, and resources.
Continuing Resources
Though the shutdown has ended and SNAP has been distributed, we are here for anyone who needs food.
Our Mobile Food Banks are available to anyone, and the extra distributions scheduled in November in response to the shutdown are still occurring. Food will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last. If we run out at a particular Mobile Food Bank, please know that other local resources are available and can be found on our Food Finder Map.
If you would like personalized support in connecting to resources, visit “Food Assistance Navigation” on the 413 Cares website, click “Contact”, and fill out a referral form, or call and leave a message for our Food Assistance Navigators at 413-206-6276.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as we work to provide food to as many people as possible.
Our Network of Pantries and Meal Sites
View the directory of our food assistance network, where you can search for pantries and pre-made meals close to you.
Mobile Food Banks
Our Mobile Food Bank brings free, nutritious groceries directly to communities across Western MA. They are open to everyone and require no documentation.
SNAP
Our SNAP team helps people access benefits, and can tell you if you are eligible for SNAP and submit an application over the phone for you.
How You Can Help
Your support ensures we can stay ready — and steady — through the uncertainty that will undoubtedly continue in the weeks and months ahead. Help us build up our reserves as we strengthen our commitment to doing everything possible to adapt and respond to the ever-changing world we live in.
Here’s how you can take action:
- Donate to the Food Bank: Every dollar helps provide two meals to families facing food insecurity.
- Volunteer: Support local food pantries in your community and help get food to the tables where it’s needed most.
- Advocate: Sign-up for our advocacy alerts.
Our Food Assistance Navigators can help. Visit the Food Assistance Navigation page on 413Cares.org, click the “Contact” button below the green navigation bar, and input your information. You can also call our FAN phone line at 413-206-6276, leave a message with your information, and a Navigator will then be in touch the next business day.