SNAP benefit freeze will leave millions nationwide struggling to pay for food – including 472,711 people in Philadelphia

By: Félice Lê-Scherban, Drexel University, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: October 29, 2025

Words: 1,214

Last Updated: 3 weeks, 6 days ago

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By Félice Lê-Scherban, Drexel University

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, is the largest, most effective tool the U.S. has to reduce food insecurity. As of late 2025, it helps more than 42 million people – including 2 million Pennsylvanians and nearly half a million Philadelphians – buy groceries.

But starting Nov. 1, 2025, Pennsylvania will stop distributing SNAP benefits due to the federal government shutdown, which began Oct. 1.

Félice …

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