Nearly 2 million Illinois residents relying on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program—better known as SNAP—could lose essential food benefits starting November 1, 2025. New data shows the program’s profound impact: 37% of these households include older adults, 45% have children, and 44% support at least one person with a disability. Federal officials have warned states that SNAP funding will be halted if the ongoing government shutdown continues. Illinois distributes over $350 million in SNAP aid each month, serving children, older adults, and people with disabilities. State officials say there is no backup funding available if federal appropriations end. Food advocates and retailers are urging federal leaders to resolve the budget impasse, warning that disruptions will leave families hungry and strain local economies. Updates are available at the Illinois Department of Human Services website.
“SNAP is a proven, time-tested program, one that protects children and families from going hungry,” said Dulce M. Quintero, IDHS Secretary. “The federal government needs to ensure families receive their benefits on November 1, so their livelihoods are not disrupted.”
“The SNAP program is one of the most successful anti-hunger initiatives in history, ensuring recipients don’t have to choose between feeding their family or affording other household needs such as medicine or utilities,” said Rob Karr, president and CEO of the Illinois Retail Merchants Association. “With grocers in many communities already struggling to keep their doors open, the elimination of this vital support puts entire communities at risk of losing access to fresh and healthy food. We urge the federal leaders to work collaboratively to ensure this assistance doesn’t lapse.”
