CHAMPAIGN – State Senator Paul Faraci is urging federal lawmakers to resolve the ongoing government shutdown to prevent the cessation of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, benefits, come Nov. 1. Nearly two million Illinois residents rely on SNAP to provide basic nutrition for themselves and their families.

"There are a number of misconceptions about the SNAP program and who benefits from food assistance,” said Faraci (D-Champaign). “The truth is this program serves a wide range of individuals, especially in our communities – our veterans, seniors, working families, children and people with disabilities. They are relying on this support to survive, and we cannot let them down.” 

SNAP provides critical support for individuals and families, offering the nutrition they need to live healthy, productive lives. The federal government shutdown threatens to halt these benefits immediately, putting millions at risk of food insecurity – including the 40,585 people in the district Faraci represents who rely on SNAP benefits.

Faraci stresses that a long-term solution requires immediate federal intervention.

“Without access to SNAP benefits, people across the nation will be forced to shoulder the burden of food insecurity, financial hardship and declining health outcomes,” said Faraci. “It shouldn’t be partisan to say all individuals and families – especially the most vulnerable among us – deserve access to nutritious food. It’s time for the federal administration to step up and preserve SNAP for the more than 40 million people across America relying on these benefits.”

Faraci is coordinating with state officials and community organizations to prepare for potential disruptions and to ensure vulnerable populations have access to emergency food assistance. Residents in Champaign County can find food assistance here. Residents in Vermilion County can find food assistance here. For additional resources, residents can find assistance through the Eastern Illinois Foodbank.