The ongoing US government shutdown threatens to halt SNAP benefits for approximately 42 million Americans, including millions in California relying on CalFresh. Several states, including Texas, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, and New York, have warned that their SNAP benefits could be suspended or delayed starting November 1 if the shutdown persists past October 27. The USDA has indicated that there will be insufficient funds to fully pay November benefits if the shutdown continues. California is particularly impacted, with Governor Gavin Newsom announcing that CalFresh benefits could face delays or disruptions if the federal government remains closed beyond October 23. The state is taking emergency measures, including deploying the National Guard and fast-tracking up to $80 million in state funds, to support food banks and mitigate food insecurity. The White House previously allocated $300 million to support WIC, but funds are expected to run out by early November, risking the nutrition of over 7 million low-income mothers, children, and pregnant women. The shutdown’s impact on food assistance programs underscores the urgent need for congressional action to reopen the government and prevent widespread food insecurity during the holiday season.