New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has declared a State of Emergency, effective November 1, 2025, in response to the suspension of federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. The decision stems from actions by the Trump Administration that affect over 800,000 residents who depend on these benefits.
Impact of SNAP Benefits Suspension
The suspension of SNAP benefits has created significant concerns for many families. This program is crucial for residents to meet their basic food needs, with nearly half of those affected being children. Furthermore, one in three beneficiaries are individuals with disabilities, and one in five are seniors aged 60 and over.
Governor Murphy emphasized the urgent need for action. “With more than 800,000 New Jerseyans relying on SNAP to put food on the table, the suspension poses a direct threat to their health and safety,” he stated. To counteract this crisis, Executive Order No. 402 has mobilized state resources to enhance food access and support vulnerable communities.
State’s Response to Food Insecurity
- Emergency measures implemented to protect public health.
- Access to existing funds for current SNAP recipients from previous months.
- Children in SNAP households eligible for free school meals without application.
Although new federal funds will not be available after November 1, SNAP participants can still utilize funds that were carried over from October 2025. Governor Murphy encourages families to utilize school meal programs. Students can receive meals without needing to fill out applications.
Resources for Residents
New Jersey residents are urged to seek assistance and stay informed through the following resources:
- Visit nj211.org for emergency resource information.
- Check SNAP account balances at NJFamiliesFirst.com.
- Call the SNAP helpline at 800-997-3333 for inquiries.
- Locate food pantries and community kitchens through NJ 211.
As the situation evolves, it is vital for recipients to keep abreast of updates regarding SNAP benefits. Residents are encouraged to reach out for additional support during this challenging time.
