Arkansas SNAP recipients brace for possible suspension amid government shutdown

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — About 42 million Americans could see their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits suspended starting Nov. 1.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has reserve funds that could keep SNAP running during a government shutdown. However, the Trump administration announced it will not use those funds, potentially leaving recipients across the country, including many Arkansans, without the safety net.

“I threw me for a loop because I didn’t think they’d take it that far,” said Mona Lord-Crouch, a SNAP recipient. “It hurts my heart that the government is being selfish. In my eyes, they’re being selfish.”

Lord-Crouch has relied on SNAP for more than 30 years, but months ago, she fell victim to a scam that stole money from her electronic benefit transfer (EBT) card. She was never reimbursed.

Now, with the government shutdown, she has been struggling for months to make ends meet.

“That’s going to be the hard part right there — trying to get my bills and my medications balanced with all of that,” Lord-Crouch said.

She’s been navigating this difficult time by leaning on support from local food banks and pantries. She stretches her groceries and freezes as much food as she can, but with only $52 a month, her pantry has run dry.

Through all the struggles, she wants change and compassion. Above all, she wants a world where no one has to wonder where their next meal will come from.

For updates, Arkansans can visit the DHS SNAP website at HumanServices.Arkansas.gov.

Those wishing to donate to the Arkansas Foodbank to support the influx of those in need can do so at ArkansasFoodbank.org.