SNAP Benefits Delay Hits Small Grocers Hard Amid Shutdown

URGENT UPDATE: Small grocers and convenience stores across the U.S. are feeling a significant impact as the government shutdown delays SNAP benefits for millions of Americans. This critical support, which affects around 42 million people, is crucial for food access and local economies.

Just last year, Ryan Sprankle, who owns three grocery stores near Pittsburgh, welcomed President Donald Trump to his store. But today, Sprankle is sending a dire message: “You can’t take away from the most needy people in the country. It’s inhumane.” The Trump administration froze SNAP funding at the end of October, leaving vulnerable families and small businesses in distress.

On Monday, the U.S. Senate passed legislation to reopen the federal government and replenish SNAP funds, but the U.S. House of Representatives has yet to vote on the bill. As families await assistance, the uncertainty looms over when SNAP payments will resume.

In 2024, SNAP recipients redeemed over $96 billion in benefits, with 74% spent at large supermarkets and superstores, and 14% at smaller grocery and convenience stores. Sprankle’s store depends on SNAP for 25% of its revenue, and he reports that customers without government assistance are also cutting back on spending amid the shutdown.

Former director of the United Nations World Food Program, Etharin Cousin, emphasized the essential role of SNAP, stating, “It’s also a local economic engine.” Without it, businesses face dire challenges. Sprankle is already feeling the strain, as lower sales cut into the overtime he can provide for his 140 employees, many of whom are worried about job security during this crisis.

In Chicago, Liz Abunaw, who recently opened Forty Acres Fresh Market, witnessed a customer putting back a full cart of groceries due to the lack of SNAP benefits. “SNAP is currency. I get money I then use in this economy. It’s not a food box,” she explained, highlighting the broader economic ramifications of SNAP’s suspension.

The impact isn’t limited to grocery stores. Kanbe’s Markets, a nonprofit in Kansas City, reported a 10% drop in sales at convenience stores it supplies after SNAP benefits were halted. As a response, they have had to increase orders to food pantries that are seeing double or triple their usual requests.

Babir Sultan, who runs four FavTrip convenience stores in food deserts, noted an 8% to 10% decline in foot traffic. To help the community, he is offering $10 of free produce to SNAP recipients while also assisting other customers in need. “If you’re in need, just ask, we’ll take care of you,” Sultan said.

The growing food insecurity and economic strain facing small grocers and families underscore the urgency for lawmakers to act. The fate of millions hangs in the balance as the House prepares to review the Senate’s bill.

As the situation develops, families are left in uncertainty, and local economies are at risk. The message from small business owners like Sprankle is clear: immediate action is necessary to restore SNAP benefits and support those who rely on this vital program.