JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — As the government shutdown enters its 21st day, its effects are becoming increasingly personal for many.

Millions of families who rely on SNAP benefits to feed themselves are facing an uncertain future. Should the shutdown extend into November, these essential benefits could be postponed. In Duval County alone, about one in every five families relies on SNAP assistance.

BEAM, a longstanding nonprofit in Jacksonville, has been providing food and emergency aid to families for over four decades.

Although they have not reached a critical point yet, BEAM staff have informed First Coast News that they are noticing early signs of concern. They are preparing for a potentially significant rise in demand if federal aid is temporarily halted.

“There is uncertainty, and with uncertainty comes fear,” said Jeff Winkler, CEO of BEAM

The fear is growing as the government shutdown drags into its third week.

Organizations like BEAM, in Jacksonville, are already preparing for what could come next

BEAM has served local families for 40 years, offering emergency financial help and access to food through their food pantries. Volunteers with the organization help people apply for or renew their SNAP benefits, commonly known as food stamps.

“A lot of the families that we serve are on such tight margins financially,” said Winkler, “Every little bit counts in order for them to make ends meet each month.”

SNAP benefits are funded through the U.S. Department of Agriculture, one of several agencies affected by the federal government shutdown.

Those benefits are administered through the Florida Department of Children and Families.

In a statement sent to First Coast News from Florida DCF, they want recipients to know:

• October snap benefits will be issued as scheduled

• November benefits will be delayed until federal funding is restored

• Do not reapply if you’ve already submitted your renewal — doing so may slow processing

During this unprecedented time, organizations like BEAM say they’re not overwhelmed yet but they’re bracing for an influx of need.

“We are also stocking up on some of our emergency food supplies just in case that we do see an increase in demand, uh, we’re able to meet that temporarily,” said Winkler. “We understand that when families come to us, they’re in their greatest moment of need. They’re scared, and the last thing that we want to do is have them feel unwelcome.”

According to DCF, any existing SNAP benefits remain available for use, and recipients can check their EBT card balance anytime by visiting ebtEDGE.com.  

Florida officials said they’re closely monitoring the situation, but if the shutdown continues, thousands of families here in Duval County could be left wondering how they’ll put food on the table next month.