Amidst latest U.S. Federal Government shutdown, local governments issue memos over SNAP and HEAP status updates

LOWVILLE & UTICA- As the latest U.S. Government shutdown drags on, local authorities are sending out memos regarding the latest status updates over certain programs, including for SNAP and HEAP.

Lewis County government officials said Wednesday morning that due to the shutdown and delayed approval and release of federal funding, the opening date for the 2025 – 2026 HEAP Regular Component has been postponed until November 17.

For those who DID NOT receive HEAP last season, applications WILL NOT be available until November 17.

On the other hand, early outreach applications will continue to be processed, but no payments will be issued until the opening date.

Meanwhile, Oneida County Government says the current shutdown may impact the November disbursement for SNAP.

With that said, New York State has advised local districts to continue accepting ALL SNAP applications and to process all recertification’s of existing SNAP profiles.

County government officials added how those receiving SNAP and who do not see their payment pending in their accounts this week should not be alarmed, as those payments are normally made between November 1 and 10 and there is still time for the Federal Government to come to an agreement and release funds to New York State.

Local officials remind that the federal shutdown could end at any moment and more updates will be released as appropriate.

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