Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Food Assistance in Pasco County
Good afternoon,
Millions of people across the country could see their federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) assistance dry up during the government shutdown. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) released guidance last Friday saying it won’t use the SNAP contingency funding, which Congress has allocated for emergency scenarios, if the shutdown extends beyond Friday.
SNAP provided benefits to about 41.7 million Americans in fiscal 2024, according to a monthly average calculated by the USDA. That year, the government spent $99.8 billion on SNAP, a monthly average of $187.20 per participant.
In 2023, the percentage of Households Receiving Cash Assistance or Food Stamps/SNAP (Census ACS) in Pasco County was 12.3%, 28,271 households, compared to the entire State of Florida at 13.5%. According to FRED, in 2022, there were 67,782 individuals receiving SNAP benefits.
SNAP benefits are funded by the federal government, while states operate and share the cost of administering the program and distributing its benefits. Because funding is sent to states monthly, October benefits were not impacted — but November payments could be at risk.
As we try to tackle the possible loss of the SNAP Saturday, it’s important Pasco County shares essential resources in our community with our residents who could be impacted. Pasco County Media Relations & Communications has posted information about Pasco’s Community Food and Resources Partners on the county’s social media platforms. We encourage you to share this information:
Food Assistance in Pasco
Pasco County understands many families in our community are struggling to put food on the table.
Please know: You're not alone.
Pasco cares and we’re here to help connect you with the resources you need to ensure no one goes hungry.
Visit our trusted Community Food & Resources Partners webpage for more information: mypas.co/FoodResources
Let’s support each other – share this post & spread the word!
The post is also on the county’s Nextdoor page.
If I can be of further assistance please do not hesitate to contact me.
Thank you,
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Ralph Lair Intergovernmental Affairs Officer Intergovernmental Affairs Pasco County P 352-521-5116 Historic Pasco County Courthouse 37918 Meridian Avenue Dade City, FL 33525 rlair@mypasco.net www.mypasco.net  |
“Serving Our Community to Create a Better Future”
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