Bellow is an Important Message from NYS OPWDD Commissioner Baer
Dear Friends and Colleagues:
It is hard to believe that we once again find ourselves facing the effects of a federal government shutdown. While we monitor the impending cuts to the Medicaid system, I want to take a moment to share important information about how this situation could more immediately affect Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits in New York State.
Due to the ongoing shutdown, November SNAP benefits may be delayed. SNAP benefits cannot be issued by the state unless federal funding is authorized. That means that if the federal shutdown continues beyond November 1, millions of New Yorkers—including people with developmental disabilities, their families and the dedicated staff who support them—could experience a disruption in this essential program. For many, this could mean serious challenges in putting food on the table.
Governor Hochul and the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA), the agency that oversees SNAP benefits, are working closely with federal partners to advocate for the release of funds needed to continue providing these critical benefits. In the meantime, New York State is taking steps to help ensure that people do not go hungry. The Governor has committed more than $106 million to food banks and other emergency food providers to help strengthen emergency food relief efforts throughout the state to address what will likely be a substantial increase in requests for emergency food assistance. The Governor has also launched a new website to help New Yorkers find needed food assistance resources at Impact of Federal Cuts on New Yorkers: Take Action & Share Your Story | Governor Kathy Hochul.
For those living in OPWDD or provider-operated certified housing, your food access will not be interrupted as providers will continue to ensure that food is provided. However, if you receive OPWDD services and live independently in the community, and you believe you may not have enough food, please reach out to your Care Manager right away for help.
For ongoing updates about SNAP benefits, please visit otda.ny.gov/shutdown.
If you would like to share how SNAP benefits make a difference in your life, you can Call your member of Congress now to let them know how these cuts would impact you, your family, and your community.
We know this uncertainty can be stressful, but please know that we are working tirelessly to minimize any disruption and to make sure New Yorkers continue to have access to food and other essential supports. We will get through this together.
Sincerely,
Willow Baer
Commissioner