DES MOINES, Iowa — Food banks and pantries in Iowa will get some extra help to see them through the expected increased demand brought on by a pause in SNAP benefits due to the government shutdown.

SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits will cease on Saturday, November 1st if the U.S. government remains shut down.

On Thursday, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds announced the state will provide interim support for Iowa’s food banks and pantries. Based on primary needs identified by the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services and regional food banks, the state has come up with a response plan.

Staffing

Gov. Reynolds has directed HHS and Volunteer Iowa to recruit volunteers and deploy them to support food assistance efforts across the state.

Distribution

The Iowa National Guard has been ordered to prepare for state active duty. Gov. Reynolds has tasked the Guard with being available to conduct food distribution missions across the state.

Food inventory

Gov. Reynolds has directed HHS to use existing state funds to match cash donations to Iowa’s six regional food banks up to $1million, starting on November 3rd, if the federal government has not funded SNAP benefits for November because of the shutdown.

“Government plays an important role in supporting its citizens, but we each have a personal responsibility to care for the people in our communities, especially those in need,” said Governor Reynolds. “That’s why the state will match up to $1 million in contributions made by Iowans for regional food banks across our state. Together, we can make an even bigger difference for our neighbors who need help during this time.” 

The governor also highlighted donations to support Iowans’ food security during the shutdown from the private sector. She said the state’s three Medicaid managed care organizations have each committed to donate $100,000 to help support Iowa food banks. Hy-Vee has donated $100,000 to food banks in its regions. Fareway and the Iowa Pork Producers Association partnered to donate $20,000 worth of ground pork to food banks in the state.