The federal government has never before failed to fund SNAP, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, during a shutdown. But this time is different.

For the first time since SNAP began in 1964, benefits for more than 640,000 Marylanders are at risk. That means seniors, children, and working families could lose the support they rely on to put food on the table.

SNAP doesn’t just help families eat; it sustains Maryland’s economy. Every dollar in SNAP benefits generates $1.50 in economic activity. It supports more than 13,000 jobs, strengthens farms, and keeps local grocery stores open — especially in communities where food access is already limited.

Without action, we’ll see immediate ripple effects:

• Families will face impossible choices between food, rent, and medicine.


• Small grocers — some who rely on SNAP for over half their sales — could shut their doors.


• Rural, suburban, and urban communities will feel the loss of millions in local spending.

Maryland has the ability and responsibility to step in. One month of state-funded SNAP benefits would cost the state just under $125 million — but it would protect families, stabilize local businesses, and safeguard our economy during this crisis.

If you’re in a position to help right now, I encourage you to check in on your local food bank, school, or organization already working overtime to support families during this shutdown. You can find more information on how to volunteer and help sort or distribute food, and other ways to become involved here:

My best,