“I am very proud to announce today that we have reached a deal to end the shutdown and reopen the federal government,” said President Donald Trump during a press conference in 2019, ending one of the longest shutdowns in U.S. history.
But today, similar uncertainty looms, with both parties trading blame through what is now the longest shutdown in US history, and millions wonder how they’ll afford their next meal.
As the government shutdown continues, one of the most vital safety nets for struggling families, SNAP, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, is once again caught in the middle.
The program provides monthly food benefits to more than 40 million Americans.
“I am a stay-at-home mom with a special needs young adult and also two kids with their own needs,” said Shanda Smith, a Santa Clarita resident who receives SNAP benefits.
“My husband was laid off in the summer of 2004, and we were on SNAP benefits probably by September. We were able to supply healthy options: salads, vegetables, and protein.”
She says the benefits helped her feed her kids healthy meals, something she fears other families are now losing.
“It’s heartbreaking. Kids need food. Better yet, they need nutrition. Parents and guardians need the same to take care of themselves and their children,” said Smith.
As the shutdown drags on, more Americans continue to lose food stamps and other forms of government support. For now, compromise does not meet compassion.
“I mean, the Republicans are voting almost unanimously to end it, and the Democrats keep voting against ending it,” said Trump in an interview with 60 Minutes.
“There needs to be more education and less ignorance,” said Smith.“I’ve personally seen, heard, and been a part of groups that come together to create their own food pantries or partner with churches or other organizations.”
“I always say it takes a village, and it really does.”
