As a result of the current federal government shutdown, 86,000 Utah families could be impacted by the disruption of federal Supplementary Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits as of November 1st. Among those impacted: refugee and new American families served by the IRC. Beyond current shutdown cuts, H.R.1, otherwise called the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, targeted the removal of certain refugee and humanitarian entrants from programs like SNAP—the shutdown only hastens this disruption for the most vulnerable in our community.

Danny Beus, executive director at the IRC in Utah, made it clear: "Any cut to SNAP benefits for refugee families in the U.S. will only serve to deepen the challenges they face, even as families strive to secure jobs, learn English, and rebuild their lives right here in Utah."

Families who are new to the U.S. are already working hard to get back on their feet and rebuild their lives. Now, they could be forced to make impossible decisions, even as they already face barriers to navigating integration into their new community.

As a result, the IRC in Utah is working around the clock to make sure vulnerable families understand the impending changes while identifying community resources families can lean on, even when SNAP benefits are halted.

For those facing food insecurity

  1. Call 2-1-1 to receive information about food pantries, meal sites and other community resources to support your situation. Calls are supported in English and Spanish as well as a variety of other languages through interpretation.
  2. Visit 211Utah.org to identify emergency food resources or to contact a representative via email or live chat.
  3. Visit UAH.org to connect with Utahns Against Hunger who offer information about emergency food resources based on your county.
  4. The IRC's health team worked to identify emergency food and other community resources in Salt Lake County. Find a resource near you »

For those who can lend a helping hand

Help us ensure refugee families—alongside fellow Utahns—maintain access to vital food security resources: 

  1. Donate grocery gift cards to the IRC. We cannot currently accept bulk food donations, but we are working to collect grocery gift cards to fill in gaps for families in need. Gift cards to stores like Winco, Smith’s, and Walmart ensure families can decide what to stock in their pantry or fridge. You can drop off gift cards, mail them in, or purchase directly from our Wish List. Email us at SaltLakeCity@Rescue.org for more information.
  2. Support local food pantries. While the IRC has limited ability to accept bulk food donations, consider a donation to the Utah Food Bank or a local pantry. Find a pantry near you »
  3. Contact your elected officials. Pick up the phone or draft an email—connect with elected officials from the local, state and federal levels urging them to focus efforts to ensure food security for all Utahns, including our refugee and new American neighbors. Get started with Utahns Against Hunger »

Contact us to learn more about supporting local refugee families by reaching out at SaltLakeCity@Rescue.org. To deepen your support, consider making a one-time contribution or starting a monthly donation in support of our work in Utah at Rescue.org/GiveSLC »