The North Carolina Department of Health & Human Services and the Alexander County Department of Social Services have received a letter from the federal government indicating potential disruptions for Food & Nutrition Services (FNS) benefits in November if the government shutdown persists.
State and local staff are currently working to understand the full implications of this disruption in North Carolina, which could result in November FNS benefits not being issued on the normal schedule or for regular benefits amounts. Staff recognizes the importance of these benefits and will provide updates as soon as federal guidance is available.
For more information on FNS benefits and the impact of the federal shutdown, please visit the NCDHHS website at www.ncdhhs.gov/fns
Clients can also check their benefits balance by using the ebtEDGE app or by calling the number on the back of their EBT card. In the meantime, clients can “Find Food Now” on the Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest NC website at www.secondharvestnwnc.org/find-help.
Clients may also utilize the NC211 service at www.nc211.org or by calling 2-1-1 to connect with local food pantries, meal programs, and other essential services 24/7 and in multiple languages.