75,000 Lane County residents may lose SNAP benefits in November

We’ve learned that Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits will not be distributed by the federal government for November 2025 if the weeks-long government shutdown continues past November 1. This will further impact thousands of Oregon families, many of whom already rely on Food for Lane County and their local food pantries for supplemental support.

Beyond the disruption to SNAP benefits during the government shutdown, November 1 also marks the beginning of new limitations to SNAP eligibility announced by the federal government. Some seniors, families, refugees here legally, and many others will no longer be able to rely on SNAP.

SNAP is the most effective anti-hunger and poverty-reducing program in the United States, and one of the longest running. Almost 75,000 neighbors in Lane County receive SNAP, and the withdrawal of this critical support for local families is of major concern.

Food for Lane County is always ready to help our neighbors. However, due to recent reductions in food supply programs at the federal level, we are already struggling to meet current need levels, and we’re very concerned we will see significantly increased demand starting November 1.

Our community has always stepped up to face such challenges, and our supporters’ generosity is the backbone of our work. We are taking many calls each day from individuals, business leaders, and community groups, all asking how they can help.

Here are some ways you can help:

1. If you have the means to give, donating funds is the most effective way for us to increase access to food. Any size gift has a positive impact. You can donate on our website.
2. Host a food or fund drive. We have a helpful toolkit on our website to get you started!
3. Volunteers make our work possible! From Food Rescue Express, where volunteers help portion, package, and label donated food, to mulching beds at our GrassRoots Garden, there are dozens of opportunities for neighbors to help. Check out volunteer opportunities here: Volunteer Opportunities Near Me · Food for Lane County on Mobilize
4. Tell your elected officials how important SNAP is to keeping Lane County strong and healthy.

Community support will help Food for Lane County meet the increased demand for food, and keep us from turning away families whose benefits are being withheld through no action of their own. A financial gift right now will also count towards our holiday matching challenge—all gifts up to $100,000 will be matched by an anonymous donor.

Food for Lane County will post occasional updates to social media as the situation develops. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. You can also sign up for our Enews to receive ongoing communications about Food for Lane County programs and community partnerships.