NASW Urged Trump Administration to Fund SNAP During Government Shutdown

In Brief

From Oct. 1 to Nov. 12, 2025, the federal government failed to pass appropriations legislation for the 2026 fiscal year. The result was a federal government shutdown, which, at 43 days, was the longest in history. During the ordeal, NASW sent a petition to President Donald Trump and congressional leaders, urging them to fund the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) before funds ran out. An average 41.7 million Americans use the program each month in the U.S., and many face hunger if the benefits are cut. The petition was signed by 6,635 social workers from across the nation. Many social workers work directly with families in need, older adults, and people living with disabilities—and know the importance of nutritious food.