New Kent Department of Social Services advise residents of SNAP benefits delay

Due to the federal government shutdown, New Kent County residents who receive SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits may be delayed or not issued for the month of November.

The Oct. 1 shutdown has halted federal funding to the SNAP program, meaning states cannot guarantee when or if November benefits will be issued. October benefits were approved before the shutdown and will be sent as scheduled.

New Kent County residences are advised to stretch their benefits, focusing on essential, nonperishable foods.

If the shutdown ends soon, November benefits may only be slightly delayed. Any new application filed on or after Oct. 16 may only receive partial benefits from October and no November benefits until funding resumes.

New Kent County’s Department of Social Services office continues to process SNAP applications and renewals but cannot guarantee the status of November benefits.