By now, most Americans are well aware that the government shutdown continues to drag on—none as acutely aware as those who benefit from Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also called food stamps. Funding for SNAP ran out starting Nov. 1 and President Trump has stated his opposition to releasing any funds for the program until the shutdown is over, despite federal court rulings instructing the opposite.
Nearly 42 million Americans receive SNAP benefits; 62% of those include children, and about 37% include older adults or people with disabilities. Nearly 40% of the recipients are working families—and despite the uncertainty surrounding the program at the moment, this is a population for which HR can make a significant impact, says Lauren Winans, CEO and principal HR consultant at Next Level Benefits HR Consulting.
Winans told HR Executive that, given the quickly changing news about SNAP benefits, HR needs to focus on keeping employees informed, supported and focused. Affected families want to know that leadership is paying attention—even if not all the answers are clear.
Employers need to focus on delivering information quickly and transparently, she says. For instance, throughout the shutdown, issue a weekly memo from leadership, along with updates on available resources, including internal programs like mental and financial health supports, assistance programs and policies around flexibility.
Also, ensure employees know about new external resources that are cropping up to help those affected by the SNAP suspension.
For example, reported that DoorDash announced it would deliver 1 million free meals and waive all delivery fees for 300,000 grocery orders placed by SNAP recipients through its “Emergency Food Response.” Also, DoorDash is partnering with 300 food banks across the nation and will deliver groceries and pantry staples directly to households facing food insecurity.
A report from Savingadvice.com noted that employers can also connect struggling employees to:
- Food pantries, which are “scrambling to prepare for a higher influx of people needing help.”
- Local churches that often operate their own food programs.
- Crisis assistance ministries that may be able to provide food and financial support.
- Local nonprofits that are collaborating to help those in need in light of the SNAP benefits cuts.
- Social media channels. Many “buy nothing” groups have already started offering leftover/still-in-date food that people are giving away.
- “Pay what you can” stands that are providing homegrown grocery staples, including fruit, vegetables, farm-fresh eggs, bread, milk and other items.
