Food Stamp Cutoff Looms Saturday, Families Face Crisis

URGENT UPDATE: Families across Western New York are bracing for a devastating cutoff of food stamps this Saturday, October 29, 2025, due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. With nearly a month of disruption, individuals like Maranda Johnson express deep concern over their ability to provide for their families without this critical aid.

As the shutdown continues, hunger relief agencies are preparing for an influx of people seeking assistance. Lavelle Salter, a staff coordinator at FeedMore WNY, which distributes food to nearly 400 food pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters across Erie, Niagara, Cattaraugus, and Chautauqua counties, emphasizes the urgency of the situation. “We are anticipating a significant rise in demand for our services as SNAP benefits become unavailable,” Salter stated.

The Second Baptist Church in Lackawanna, which operates a food pantry three days a week, is also preparing for increased need. Rev. Mark E. Blue highlighted the crucial role SNAP benefits play within the community, saying, “These benefits are a lifeline for many families who are already struggling to make ends meet.”

Boxes of food are stacked high in FeedMore’s warehouse, ready to support those in crisis. Volunteers like Ameer Brown are working tirelessly to load food onto pallets, ensuring that supplies are available for those in need. “We’re doing everything we can to help our neighbors during this difficult time,” Brown said.

The impending cutoff of food stamps will not only impact families but also strain local food relief organizations, already stretched thin by rising demand. As the clock ticks down to Saturday, officials urge those affected to seek assistance immediately.

The community is urged to act fast, as the lack of SNAP benefits will create immediate food insecurity. Authorities confirm that those who rely on these benefits will face hardship unless alternative resources are mobilized swiftly.

WHAT’S NEXT: Families are encouraged to reach out to local food pantries and relief organizations before the cutoff. FeedMore WNY and other agencies are gearing up to provide support, but the demand is expected to surge.

Stay tuned for further updates as this developing situation unfolds. The impact of the food stamp cutoff could be felt long after the government shutdown ends, making immediate action crucial for those in need.