SNAP, or food stamps, is a lifeline for over 42 million people in the U. S. It's not as easy as walking into a church food pantry. You have to apply, meet income rules, and hope politicians don't mess things up.

During the longest U. S. government shutdown, there was a lot of confusion about food aid. The government and courts argued about using backup funds to keep SNAP running. It wasn't about not having enough money. It was about political choices. A judge even said the government had enough funds to feed families until November.

Some people think local food banks can fill the gap if SNAP is cut. But that's not realistic. Churches and food banks do great work, but they can't suddenly feed millions more people. It's like asking a small bakery to feed a whole city overnight.

New rules, called the Big Beautiful Bill, will kick about 3 million people off SNAP. This includes refugees who fled dangerous situations and are now legally in the U. S. These cuts hurt the most vulnerable, like families with kids and people who have already been through a lot. It's not about saving money. It's about causing harm.

SNAP helps people start over in the U. S. It gives them stability while they look for jobs. Food is not just about survival. It's about dignity and being able to thrive. Cutting SNAP will have big consequences, affecting local economies and future generations.

The idea that churches can fill the gap is dangerous. Churches work hard to help their communities, but they can't replace a $186 billion program. Calling these cuts "big and beautiful" is not just wrong. It's cruel.

The truth is, the U. S. has enough resources to make sure no one goes hungry. What we need is compassion and the political will to do what's right.

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SNAP Cuts: A Recipe for Disaster

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