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Judge Orders SNAP Payments to Continue During Shutdown as Chicago Restaurants Offer Free Meals

Nearly two million Illinois residents rely on the program, heightening urgency around short-term food access.

Overview

  • U.S. District Judge John McConnell in Rhode Island directed the government to use contingency funding to keep SNAP payments going during the shutdown.
  • The judge cited roughly $6 billion in appropriated contingency funds as necessary to maintain program operations.
  • The Trump administration had said benefits would stop starting Nov. 1, creating immediate uncertainty for recipients.
  • Manny’s Deli in Chicago will provide a free family meal to people who show a SNAP card starting Monday, joining other local efforts.
  • Tazza Italian Ristorante, Wooden Paddle, and Lou Malnati’s with Lawndale Community Church announced time-limited free meals or $10 coupon distributions, with some offers running through Nov. 16.