Facing an impending suspension of federal food assistance benefits, Arizona’s food banks are preparing for an intense surge in demand. Democratic Governor Katie Hobbs has stepped in with a $1.8 million allocation to help these organizations cope as they brace for the halt of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits due to the ongoing government shutdown expected to take effect on November 1.
Hobbs’ decision to channel pandemic recovery funds to food banks comes at a crucial time, as nearly 900,000 residents rely on SNAP. Despite the substantial monthly $156 million that Arizona usually receives from SNAP, the governor’s contribution is a temporary relief measure rather than a full solution.
“It is appalling that the Trump administration is choosing to withhold food from vulnerable Arizona families, using them as leverage in their political games,” Hobbs remarked, expressing her frustration at the federal government’s actions. She further urged local retailers, grocers, and the fresh produce industry to pitch in with donations and resources.
Last week, Hobbs had dismissed suggestions of using COVID-19 relief funds to offset the SNAP cuts, citing that “The COVID money is very much exhausted.” Her spokesperson, Christian Slater, confirmed that the recent funding does not preclude the possibility of exploring other strategies to address the shortfall.
In a related development, Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes has joined forces with attorneys general from 21 other states in filing a lawsuit against the Trump administration. This legal action seeks to compel the continuation of SNAP funding, arguing that the USDA could utilize alternative funding sources to sustain the program.
The USDA’s large contingency fund is a point of contention; the agency maintains it is earmarked solely for natural disasters. This stance marks a departure from a prior shutdown plan that indicated the fund would be used to extend SNAP benefits. The USDA website now attributes the government shutdown to Democrats.
Mayes has also urged Hobbs and the state legislature to convene a special session to consider using the state’s “rainy day fund” to mitigate the cuts. Meanwhile, of the $1.8 million Hobbs has allocated, $1.5 million will go directly to food banks, and $300,000 will support Food Bucks Now, a program that provides $30 vouchers redeemable at select grocery stores and farmers markets for SNAP households.
Howard Fischer of Capitol Media Services contributed to this article.
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