10/31/2025

NCN, Allies Block SNAP Cutoff, Protecting Food Assistance for 42 Million Americans

Without the court's urgent action, federal funds for SNAP would have run out on Nov. 1

A federal judge issued a temporary restraining order today to ensure that 42 million Americans can continue receiving critical food assistance under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) during the federal government shutdown. Under the temporary restraining order, the Trump Administration is required to distribute contingency funds to continue food assistance while the case proceeds.

"I applaud the court for its quick action to provide immediate, emergency relief to more than 42 million Americans, including children, seniors and veterans, who would otherwise go hungry without access to federal nutrition programs," said Diane Yentel, president and CEO of the National Council of Nonprofits (NCN), in a press statement. "For now, these families can continue putting food on their tables, and thousands of nonprofit food banks, pantries and other organizations across the country can avoid the impossible burden that would have resulted if SNAP benefits had been halted. While this protective measure is temporary, the NCN is committed to securing permanent protections for the American people and the nonprofits [upon which] they depend."

The order follows a lawsuit filed by the NCN, together with a coalition of charitable and faith-based organizations, small businesses, local governments, unions and with attorneys From Democracy Forward and the Lawyers' Committee for Rhode Island.

Without the court's urgent action, federal funds for SNAP would have run out on Nov. 1, as the Trump administration has refused to use a contingency fund to continue food assistance during the shutdown. More than 42 million Americans would have been directly harmed, left without the resources to buy healthy, nutritious food. While local nonprofit food banks and pantries are already stepping up to fill gaps in their communities, many lack the resources or capacity to meet the overwhelming need.