As the federal government shutdown moves into its third week, the Oregon Department of Human Services is warning that if the shutdown continues past October 31, the state will not be able to issue SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits.

Governor Kotek’s office stated that those impacted with be contacted by ODHS on Monday.

The state has posted a comprehensive Frequently Asked Questions document, which can be viewed by clicking here. In it, ODHS confirms that should the shutdown cause a delay, recipients will be paid retroactively (meaning recipients will receive what was missed once the shutdown is over.)

ODHS encourages SNAP participants to:

• Check your EBT card balance regularly
• Continue following SNAP rules and reporting requirements
• Stay informed by following or subscribing to ODHS communication channels
• Sign-up for an ONE Online account and download the Oregon ONE Mobile app at oregon.gov to get notices about your SNAP case
• Know where to find emergency food resources in your community.
  • Visit the ODHS Food Resources web page to find local programs and food support.
  • Contact 211info by dialing 2-1-1, texting your ZIP code to 898-211, or visiting 211info.org.
  • Older adults and people with disabilities:
    • Connect with the Aging and Disability Resource Connection of Oregon (ADRC) for help finding government and community resources.
    • Call 1-855-673-2372 or visit adrcoforegon.org

ODHS will be holding a public webinar, “Federal Shutdown: SNAP Updates Webinar for Community Partners” this Thursday October 23 at 10am. Registration link is here.

For the latest information, visit ODHS’ dedicated news page at: https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/news/Pages/snap-updates.aspx