The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) was told by the federal government’s Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) to hold November Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) issuance and ongoing benefits due to the federal government funding lapse, according to an MDHHS press release.

The release states there may be limited availability of funds to pay full November SNAP benefits for approximately 42 million individuals across the nation.

According to MDHHS, the federal government’s delay of SNAP benefits may place Michigan residents at risk of food insecurity and poverty. SNAP, a program for families and individuals in Michigan to access food, is the nation’s largest food assistance program, according to the release.

MDHHS states that about 13% of Michigan households, approximately 1.4 million people, receive SNAP benefits. About 43% are families with children and 36% are families with members who are older adults or disabled.

“The impact of households losing SNAP benefits will be felt around the state,” Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS director, said in the release. “SNAP is more than a food assistance program; it’s a lifeline for many Michigan families. It helps families put nutritious food on the table, supports local farmers and grocers, and strengthens our communities and economy. We are strongly disappointed by the USDA’s decision to delay this assistance, and in Michigan we will do what we can to help blunt this impact.”

SNAP participants should reach out to their local MDHHS office with any questions regarding their SNAP benefits or check newmibridges.michigan.gov for updates, according to MDHHS. Individuals can dial 2-1-1 or visit mi211.org for confidential assistance and referrals to local food programs and support services. Michigan residents can also visit fbcmich.org/ to locate food banks.