Given that the shutdown has now ended, we expect several public benefits to begin again. Here is an update on what we know at this time. 

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP):

Unless subject to the new work requirement rules that took effect on November 1, SNAP, also known as food stamps, recipients should expect to see funds directly from the federal government to their spending cards in about a week, and grocery stores are working to restock.  

• Until new funds are available, recipients can still use any remaining funds on their EBT cards. These funds can be spent for up to a year.
• Both PA and NJ continue processing SNAP applications and case updates.
• It is important that families keep their current contact information updated with their state benefit programs to avoid any additional benefit delays.
• Access up-to-date information on PA SNAP: https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dhs/resources/snap
• Access up-to-date information on NJ SNAP: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/njsnap/

We continue to offer these resources for patients and families experiencing hunger: 

Visit resourceconnects.org as a one-stop shop to locate free or reduced-cost services on food, housing, childcare and more. Your CHOP social work representative can also assist.

For specific Philadelphia-based resources:

• CHOP is increasing food distribution to its weekly free pop-up produce markets at Pediatric Primary Care, Cobbs Creek, on Wednesdays 9am-12pm, and Karabots Pediatric Primary Care Center, West Philadelphia, on Thursdays 9am-12pm.
• Visit Philabundance.org
• Visit Phila.gov/food or call 311

For specific Pennsylvania-based resources:

• Visit https://pa-navigate.org/
• Visit www.feedingpa.org
• Visit www.pa211.org

For specific New Jersey-based resources:

• Visit https://www.nj.gov/basicneeds/food/get-food-this-week.shtml
• Visit www.nj211.org

Low-Income Home Energy Program (LIHEAP):

In Pennsylvania, the 2025-26 season opening is delayed until December 3, 2025. Access up-to-date information on PA LIHEAP here: https://www.pa.gov/services/dhs/apply-for-the-low-income-home-energy-assistance-program-liheap 

The New Jersey LIHEAP program is not reporting a delayed start at this time. Access up-to-date information on NJ LIHEAP here: https://www.nj.gov/dca/dhcr/offices/hea.shtml

Women, Infants and Children (WIC) benefits:

WIC benefits are projected to remain available in Pennsylvania and New Jersey throughout the federal shutdown. Access up-to-date information on their state sites:

• PA WIC:  https://www.pawic.com/
• NJ WIC: https://www.nj.gov/health/fhs/wic/