Urgent Food Stamp Cutoff Hits Families Saturday Amid Shutdown

UPDATE: Families across Western New York are on edge as the federal government shutdown threatens to cut off vital food stamp benefits starting this Saturday, October 29, 2025. With nearly a month of uncertainty, individuals like Maranda Johnson fear they won’t be able to provide sufficient food for their families.

As the clock ticks down, hunger relief organizations like FeedMore WNY are bracing for a surge in demand. Lavelle Salter, a staff coordinator at FeedMore, reports that the agency distributes food to nearly 400 food pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters throughout Erie, Niagara, Cattaraugus, and Chautauqua counties.

Rev. Mark E. Blue from the Second Baptist Church in Lackawanna highlights the critical role of SNAP benefits for the community, stating, “You barely get by as it is.” With the anticipated cutoff, local churches and food banks are expected to see an overwhelming increase in families seeking assistance.

On Wednesday, volunteers like Ameer Brown were hard at work at FeedMore’s Buffalo warehouse, loading boxes of food in preparation for what is likely to be a chaotic weekend. “We’re doing everything we can to meet the needs of our community,” Salter said, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.

As families prepare for what could be a drastic change in their food security, officials urge those in need to reach out to local food pantries and support services. The stark reality of the shutdown’s impact is resonating deeply, with many fearing for their next meal.

Hunger relief advocates are calling for immediate government action to restore food aid and provide relief to families struggling to make ends meet. As the situation develops, community members are encouraged to stay informed and share resources.

The cutoff of food stamps is not just a statistic; it represents the very real struggle many families face daily. With only hours remaining before the benefits end, the urgency is palpable.

Stay tuned for further updates as this story unfolds, and consider supporting local food banks to help those in need during this critical time.