Editorial and Opinion Page

Cutting SNAP Benefits Has Several Impacts On Americans Today

By Charlotte Welliver and Eleanor Green

Are SNAP Benefits still cut with the Government reopened?
As of Wednesday, November 12, 2026, President Trump signed a funding bill to end the record-breaking 43-day shutdown. With the government reopening, according to USDA spokesperson Alec Varsamis, most states will receive the funds to distribute benefits within 24 hours. This means that “millions of low-income Americans should receive full food aid benefits.” However, not everything will be back in shape for everyone. According to the many anti-hunger groups, some states could see delays in returning SNAP benefit issuances to normal levels, given that they’ve paused their typical process for readying the funds due to the shutdown.

What are SNAP benefits?

SNAP stands for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Snap provides food assistance to low-income families who struggle to provide food for their children or themselves. SNAP is a federal program designed to help families and relieve stress, and increase nutrition among low-income families. It provides monthly benefits that can be used to purchase food.

Who is eligible for SNAP?

To qualify for SNAP, many factors are considered, including your income, family size, and expenses. Many families that qualify for SNAP have a gross income of 130% or less. For a family of three in 2025, this is approximately $33,576 annually. You have to be at the line or below the line of poverty. SNAP covers staple foods like bread, cereal, fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, and dairy products

How have SNAP benefits been affected by the government shutdown?

On November 1, 2025, SNAP benefits were set to be suspended for the first time in the program's history due to the ongoing government shutdown. Approximately 42 million Americans, including 16 million children, rely on these benefits for food assistance. The SNAP benefits help support millions of families, and with the government shutdown, many children are going hungry. Many families rely on SNAP benefits, and the government shutdown has left many Americans hungry and frustrated.

What can you do to help?

There are many ways Americans can come together to help those affected by the cut of SNAP benefits. A crucial way to help is by going to your local FoodBank, whether it's volunteering or donating. People can also offer direct support like a “grocery buddy” who is are volunteers who help others buy groceries by providing financial assistance, shopping for them, and delivering groceries. Spreading awareness, advocating, and encouraging participation are also easy ways to help those affected.

SNAP Eligibility: Who Qualifies for Benefits?

Student Opinions: Community Pasta and Soup Drive Brings School Together

by Gavin Meier

During the community Pasta and Soup Drive, students at Notre Dame shared their thoughts on the importance of helping people in need. The drive, which collected food donations for local families in need, inspired students to reflect on service, gratitude, and what it means to live out the Mercy mission. From friendly competition to heartfelt generosity, Crusaders showed that small acts can make a big difference in our community.

Elle Carvellas

Elle said it’s especially important that people have access to food during the holidays, especially with the government shutdown. She hopes that our donations can help families in need, even if just a little.

Evelyn Wheeler

Evelyn shared that the holiday season can be a difficult time for many families. People want to buy gifts for their loved ones, but some don’t have enough money for food. She believes that even a small donation can make a big difference and free up a little bit of stress.

Caitlin Keenan

Caitlin said that as a Mercy school, it’s important for us to help others in our community. As a Catholic school, she believes it’s our responsibility to support people in need whenever we can.

Xander Odum

Xander said that the food drive helps ensure people who can’t afford a consistent meal plan are still able to eat and have access to the food they need.

Meredith Rogers

Meredith said it’s important because it allows us to directly impact the community in a positive way.

Owen Niedrich

Owen said it’s important because the community should always be a priority, and supporting it is part of that commitment. As a Mercy school, he believes it’s important that we give back.

Bobby Sharp

Bobby said he thinks making a competition out of the food drive was a fun way to support the community. He believes it helps get more people involved while making a positive difference.

The Community Pasta and Soup Drive has clearly brought out compassion and generosity among Notre Dame students, sparking reflection on service, gratitude, and unity. While each student shares a unique perspective, one message remains constant: giving back to the community is part of who we are as a Catholic school.

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