10/31/2025
The Northwest Food Coalition is preparing for an increased demand for food assistance as SNAP (Food Assistance) benefits are expected to be delayed or disrupted in November due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. Any interruption to SNAP will place significant strain on families and on food pantries and meal programs across Northwest Michigan.
According to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, 13,602 residents in the five-county region served by the Northwest Food Coalition—Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau —currently receive $2,214,949 in food assistance each month. More than one-third of those receiving assistance are children.
“With so many households depending on SNAP, we anticipate even a short disruption will push more families into crisis,” said Mary Clulo of the Northwest Food Coalition Operating Committee. “The pantries and meal sites in Northwest Michigan will not be able to make up for the loss in SNAP. Pantries in the Coalition are already experiencing increases. Our network is preparing to respond as effectively as possible to meet community needs.”
The Coalition—made up of 70+ food pantries, meal programs, and partner organizations—is activating plans to increase support to member pantries and meal sites in the event of a SNAP delay.
These plans include:
● Establishing a temporary emergency fund
● Distributing additional resources to pantries and meal programs
● Coordinating volunteers for repacking and distribution efforts
● Connecting residents to local food assistance programs and resources
The Food Coalition cannot fully meet the needs the loss of SNAP benefits will create.
About the Northwest Food Coalition
Founded in 1994, the Northwest Food Coalition works to empower member food programs by coordinating and creating resources to achieve regional food security. Meeting increased community need—especially during crises—is central to the Coalition’s mission and shared values.
If You Need Food or Want to Help
● If you need immediate food assistance, call 2-1-1 or visit www.mi211.org or www.northwestmifoodcoalition.org to find a local pantry or meal site.
● To donate or volunteer, visit the Coalition website to find a list of local pantries nearest you or donate to the Coalition directly.
