Many SNAP recipients frustrated as they haven’t received their November benefits

Philadelphia Viral News

Many SNAP recipients frustrated as they haven’t received their November benefits

Story By #RiseCelestialStudios

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — Many people on SNAP benefits are frustrated and anxious, as they still haven’t received their SNAP benefits for November. And while this food fight makes its way through the courts, they’re struggling to put food on the table.

“Right now I’m spending my last paycheck to get dinner for the week, so it’s like we’re doing weekly shopping every day and you’re not getting enough to feed anything,” said Jessica Robinson, of West Philadelphia.

Robinson said she hasn’t received her SNAP benefits for November and is doing everything she can to make ends meet.

“You barely get anything with cash, so it’s hard for us to try to make do with what we have. The food banks if you don’t make it in time, you don’t get no food,” said Robinson.

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro said he’s fighting for Pennsylvanians. On Friday, the state began issuing SNAP payments after a lower court ruling allowed funding to move forward.

But the Trump administration is now demanding that states reverse those payments, following a U.S. Supreme Court Justice’s decision to put a temporary hold on that ruling.

In a court filing late Saturday night, the administration said states were not authorized to issue full SNAP benefits, arguing,

“To the extent that States decided to submit their files early knowing that Defendants had appealed the Court’s injunction and intended to seek a stay, and in the face of direction to the contrary, they are responsible for the consequences of that action.”

“My appeal to the Trump administration is just do the right thing. Give up. You’re going to lose again in court,” said Governor Josh Shapiro, Friday.

Pennsylvania and New Jersey officials told action news they are monitoring the changing situation. Delaware, meanwhile, is using state funds to partially support SNAP recipients.

Meantime, advocates like Brian Mazelis said they’re doing everything they can to fill the gap.

“It’s incredibly frustrating, and we’re stepping in where we can to provide assistance for people you know, taking donations for either gift cards or different food baskets,” said Brian Mazelis, of West Philadelphia.