Olmsted County provides local support amid ongoing federal shutdown

  • News
  • Oct 22, 2025

In response to the ongoing federal government shutdown and its anticipated impact on food assistance programs, the Olmsted County Board of Commissioners voted on October 21, 2025, to approve temporary local support for residents who may lose access to critical federal benefits in November.

The board’s action authorizes a one-time donation of up to $200,000 to Channel One Food Bank to help bridge the gap in November for families in need. The donated funds are to be used to purchase food and infant formula, which will be made available to Olmsted County residents currently receiving federal benefits affected by the anticipated suspension of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP) food benefits, and Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) benefits.

“This action by the county board is about protecting the health and well-being of our most vulnerable residents, but we know it only addresses less than half of the anticipated need during November,” said Olmsted County Board of Commissioners Chair Mark Thein. “We are committed to responding with care and collaboration during this unprecedented time, and we challenge our broader community likewise to take bold action to support their neighbors here in Olmsted County. Without that, some families will go hungry and county funds will fall short as soon as the middle of November.”   

Federal program disruptions

Due to funding shortages caused by the federal government shutdown, the SNAP/MFIP food benefits will not be issued for November until the shutdown ends or the Minnesota Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) receives further guidance from the federal government. 

In Olmsted County, 6,653 households (12,817 individuals) on SNAP/MFIP food portion receive approximately $1.9 million monthly SNAP benefits.  November benefits will not be issued unless federal funding resumes.  Notices that benefits will not be issued in November were distributed by the state on October 21.

In addition, more than 3,000 clients rely on WIC, which supports more than $250,000 in monthly food purchases. Minnesota WIC reports having enough funds to cover food costs through mid-November.

Community members and organizations are encouraged to reach out to Channel One to donate funds and support those especially in need in the coming weeks.  

Staying informed

Olmsted County will continue to monitor the federal government shutdown situation and provide updates as new information becomes available. Residents are encouraged to: