Potential loss of SNAP benefits has NY officials scrambling to fill gaps for K-12 kids

The fear of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) being cut as a result of the government shutdown that began Oct. 1 has become reality.

- By EMMA DELAHANTY Special to the AmNews

More than 42 million people will be affected, the USDA reported.

But New York State residents will be at a loss of crucial aid as 14.7% of people statewide will be affected, with children, the elderly, and people with disabilities being at the forefront of this loss, according to the Hunter College New York City Food Policy Center.

This affects K-12 children in particular and advocates say it is a necessity in danger of disappearing. City records show more than 806,000 children qualified for free or reduced-price lunch in 20240, according to Chalkbeat.