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With SNAP benefits cut, NH steps in with a temporary fix

The state has rolled out a $2 million plan starting Nov. 5 for the next five weeks. The money will fund mobile food pantries for SNAP recipients only and boost traditional pantries that serve anyone in need.

Jacob McGowin/Unsplash

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Two federal judges ordered the Trump administration to keep paying for SNAP benefits—but the administration has said it will only about half of what recipients usually receive.

In New Hampshire, that means roughly 75,000 people who rely on SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) are getting less help putting food on the table. The average benefit here is usually about $160 per month.

To soften the blow, the state has rolled out a $2 million plan starting Nov. 5 for the next five weeks. The money will fund mobile food pantries for SNAP recipients only and boost traditional pantries that serve anyone in need.

To access SNAP benefits, you must present your EBT benefit card.

It’s a temporary move—normally, SNAP costs nearly $13 million in the state in that same timeframe.

“New Hampshire has been proactive putting together a contingency plan, but this is just a fraction of what SNAP benefits are usually in the state,” said NH Food Bank Executive Director Elsy Cipriani.

Meanwhile, the state says the WIC (Women, Infants and Children Nutrition Program) is funded only through Nov. 7.

If you or someone you know is in need, share this link of where to find food in New Hampshire during the shutdown.

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Colin Booth
Colin Booth Chief Political Correspondent
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