WPRO News

The head of the state agency that distributes federal food stamp benefits to about 150,000 Rhode Islanders says there’s been little disruption to the SNAP program as a result of the partial federal government shutdown, but recipients are being told to expect some changes, and to make adjustments.

“February benefits for SNAP recipients have been preserved,” said Courtney Hawkins, Director of the Rhode Island Department of Human Services, but those February benefits will be distributed about ten days early, and there will be no distribution of benefits on February 1.

“We want to be sure people know that there will not be another distribution coming February first, so they should budget their SNAP allotment accordingly to ensure that it lasts through the month of February,” Hawkins said. More details were posted to a state website. 

SNAP is short for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, which is administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, among the federal agencies affected by the government shutdown, now in its 24th day.

February’s benefits distribution is still an open question, Hawkins said.

“They do not have a full month of benefits for the nation set aside, so if the shutdown does not end soon, I think it’s safe to say that March benefits are at risk,” Hawkins said.

According to the DHS, about $21.1 million was distributed in December to more than 93,000 households, or about 150,000 individuals, representing about 15% of Rhode Islanders.