As Thanksgiving approaches, millions of Americans will find themselves struggling to put food on the table thanks to rising grocery prices caused by inflation.

Food insecurity is a source of stress and pain for many Americans, but SNAP recipients are preparing for the worst case scenario. The government shutdown amplifies these stressors as SNAP benefits, also known as food stamps, will not be distributed until the shutdown ends and the funds are provided to the state.

In 2024, the Economic Research Service of the USDA reported that 41.7 million people received SNAP benefits per month.

SNAP provides low-income American citizens with the funds needed to buy their groceries. Contrary to popular belief, it is not just needy families who rely on SNAP. Individuals who meet low-income criteria qualify for SNAP, including college students.

However, students face a unique challenge when it comes to qualifying for SNAP.

According to to a 2024 Government Accountability Report, “Individuals enrolled at least half time in an institution of higher education (IHE) are eligible for SNAP if they meet certain criteria (exemptions).” Therefore, full-time college students may only be able to receive SNAP benefits if they meet these exemptions. Students with disabilities or students on a work study program qualify, as well.

Because of this exclusive criteria, students who are in situations where they are not receiving help from their family, or are otherwise facing financial hardship, will not be able to receive SNAP benefits. This leads to even more food insecurity and hunger for college students.

On top of that, a congressional bill passed in July has resulted in even more changes and tighter restrictions on the eligibility for SNAP benefits. Starting Nov. 1, SNAP recipients will have to work, volunteer or participate in education or training for at least 20 hours a week and report these requirements to the Department of Human Services. There are still exemptions, and the list can be found on the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s official website.

Even after someone meets all the requirements and receives their benefits, they may still face food insecurity as SNAP benefits are cut for the month of November. In a time where food insecurity is already high and the cost of living continues to rise, SNAP recipients will be left scrambling to find food for themselves or their families. Food banks and pantries are already feeling the strain.

The Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank provides services to other food banks and pantries in Allegheny County. According to their website, “earlier this year, the USDA cut $5 million in USDA Commodities and direct funding for the purchase of food from Pennsylvania farmers, manufacturers and growers.”

Due to these cuts, Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank and its many partners will not be able to distribute the amount of food needed to keep Pittsburgh residents fed during the month of November.

Students who fear facing hunger during this crisis do have options. The Pioneer Pantry at Point Park, located on the first floor of Thayer Hall, offers a selection of items including dairy,grains and protein. There is also a Produce Pop-Up on the first Wednesday of each month located on the second floor of Lawrence Hall.

Another resource is PA Navigate which can be used to help locate other food banks or initiatives in specific areas by zip code. Feeding Pennsylvania and PA211 are also resources.

These cuts to the SNAP program will have a devastating impact on the lives of millions. College students are already struggling to stay fed, which will lead to adverse effects on their health. Humans need food for their vital organs to function, and students will struggle academically due to cognitive impairments caused by hunger.

It’s important that people reach out for help and contact their local food banks. There is no shame in needing help or SNAP benefits, and there is absolutely no shame in being food insecure or low-income. Everyone deserves access to basic needs, and food is a basic human right.