Resources and Information if you are losing SNAP benefits in Idaho November 1, 2025

Idaho has nearly 300 food banks, food pantries, and soup kitchens to help support families when they need help right away.

1. Use the “Find a Service Location” tool on the Health and Welfare website:
   Find a Service Location | Idaho Department of Health and Welfare 
2. Call 1-866-3-HUNGRY to find help from local food banks and pantries
3. Contact the Idaho CareLine: dial 2-1-1 or visit Call 211 for Essential Community Services | United Way 211 to be connected with local food programs and other social services in your area. 
4. Contact the National Hunger Hotline by texting “food” to 97779 
5. Home – The Idaho Foodbank: You can find resources by clicking the “Get Help” button at the top of the screen on their website
6. Locate all local food banks and pantries in your area by using the “Find a Food Bank” search tool on Feeding America’s Website:  https://www.feedingamerica.org/find-your-local-foodbank
7. See a list of all Idaho foodbanks including addresses, hours of operation, and phone numbers: Food Assistance Locator – The Idaho Foodbank

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ): 

Q: Why am I losing access to SNAP benefits starting November 1, 2025? 

A: The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced on its website that SNAP benefits won’t be sent out come Nov. 1 because the program lacks the funding it needs during the ongoing government shutdown. Benefits will be delayed until federal funding resumes.  

*You will not lose benefits permanently due to the shutdown. A delay is not the same as being cut off. Keep your contact information up to date so you receive notices.

Q: What is the difference between a food bank and a food pantry? 

A: A food bank is a warehouse that collects and stores food from donations and food drives.
A food pantry is where people can get free food. A food pantry gets its food from a food bank and gives it directly to people.

Q: Who can receive food at a food pantry?

A: Anyone who needs extra help affording food can visit a food pantry or meal program. Some pantries or programs may have additional requirements, like living in a certain area.

Q: How will I know when SNAP benefits will be issued again if they stop? 

A: You can call 2-1-1 to get the latest information OR check About SNAP | Idaho Department of Health and Welfare website for recent updates related to SNAP benefits. .