NJFDC’s Statement on National SNAP Crisis, Part 1

NJFDC commends state leaders for acting quickly to support food banks and challenge the federal government’s pause of November SNAP benefits. This swift action, paired with clear communication, helped minimize harm and enable decisive statewide coordination during an uncertain moment for many New Jersey households. Unfortunately, additional food bank funding alone cannot meet the scale of this crisis.

The most effective and dignified response during a crisis of this nature is to put resources directly into the hands of those impacted—through cash or debit-style assistance that allows families to choose their own food in the way that works for them. State and local governments, including Union County, NJ, have taken this approach, which complements, rather than replaces, emergency food providers.

We urge state and philanthropic partners to trust and fund community-based networks that can deliver aid swiftly and equitably. Looking ahead, New Jersey must also strengthen its own fiscal capacity to respond to future crises through fair and sustainable revenue generating measures.