By Speakin’ Out News Staff
MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Alabama families depending on SNAP benefits could see partial payments by the end of this week, but with smaller amounts than expected.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) has instructed the Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR) to process partial November payments reflecting a 35% reduction in the maximum allotment.
The change comes amid the ongoing federal government shutdown, which has disrupted programs nationwide. A federal judge ordered the release of full SNAP funding, but that decision is being appealed.
“It is important to understand that the Thrifty Food Plan was changed; and as a result, a straight 35 percent reduction from a recipient’s normal monthly benefit may not be the amount received,” DHR said in a statement.
The agency is updating its system to calculate adjusted payments and said it is “hopeful to release benefits by the end of this week, barring any unforeseen problems.”
SNAP — the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program — provides essential food support to more than 730,000 Alabamians. The program helps low-income families, seniors, and people with disabilities afford groceries, but with benefits reduced, many households are already feeling the strain.
Local food banks and community groups have reported an increase in requests for help as families wait for assistance.
The U.S. Senate is expected to vote soon on a spending bill to reopen the government and restore full funding for programs like SNAP. Until then, Alabama families continue to face uncertainty.
“For many, a 35 percent cut isn’t just numbers — it’s meals they can’t serve,” said one food pantry worker in Birmingham.