Written By: Prince William County
There are 15,200 families in Prince William County who receive benefits through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), providing approximately $5.9 million in food assistance to residents in the county each month. If the federal government shutdown continues, there will be an impact to SNAP, meaning those families may not be issued food assistance starting on November 1. Prince William County is closely monitoring the federal appropriations discussion and the potential impact to the community if a federal appropriations bill is not passed by November 1.
On October 23, Governor Glenn Youngkin declared a state of emergency, stating that “the Commonwealth will provide food benefits.” Prince William County is waiting for guidance from the Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) on what that means at the local level.
If there is a disruption due to the lack of available funding, the county’s Department of Social Services (DSS) will work closely with VDSS and local community partners to minimize the impact and will look at all possible options the county has in assisting families.
In the meantime, residents can reach out to the Department of Social Services at 703 792-7500 or the VDSS Benefits Hotline at 1-800-552-3431 if they have questions.
Anyone experiencing food insecurity or needs assistance due to the government shutdown can visit the county’s Resource Hub for information about available resources: https://loom.ly/IWw__j4
For additional information, visit the county’s website: https://loom.ly/nEBvoUU
