South Dakota Strong: How to Help Neighbors in Need if Government Shutdown Continues

A recent report stated that almost 75,000 South Dakotans could lose their food assistance benefits if Congress is unable to come to an agreement to end the federal government shutdown.

As of November 11, the Senate has voted 60 to 40 to approve a continuing resolution which would reopen the government. But the shutdown will not end right away; the House of Representatives must also pass the legislation with a majority vote before President Trump can sign it into law.

GROW South Dakota has launched an Emergency Food Campaign to provide nutritional support to families through our Community Action Program service area.

The goal?

Get food on the table for thousands of households across the state who are reliant on federal assistance programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and WIC (Women, Infants and Children).

The campaign, which began on November 4th and will continue through the Day of Giving on December 2, 2025, will raise critical dollars to provide nutritional support to all of our families in need.

With your support, we can all make a difference in the lives of thousands of our neighbors! 

How Will An Ongoing Shutdown Affect South Dakota?

Since funding for SNAP and WIC comes from the federal government, not the state of South Dakota, a loss of federal funding due to a possible lingering shutdown could impact the ability of a recipient to receive food.

SNAP provided $14.76 million worth of assistance to 74,459 South Dakotans in September alone, which includes more than 33,000 children. According to the White House, under a government shutdown, SNAP benefits would continue for approximately 30 days before facing disruption.

WIC, which provides food and formula to women, infants, and children, serves over 15,000 residents every month. According to the South Dakota WIC Program 2020 Annual Report, WIC provides a monthly benefit of $40.91 for healthy foods to women and children. The report found that this allows WIC mothers to make healthier food choices for their families. If not federally funded, the program would stop immediately and become reliant on local funding.

“If the government shutdown is prolonged, those reserves are likely to run out by the end of the first week,” stated the White House report. 

How Can I Help Fight Food Insecurity in South Dakota?

Due to the shutdown, our local food pantries have seen an increase in demand and are beginning to run low on supplies for children, seniors, and working families who utilize the SNAP and WIC programs.

But in the event the shutdown continues, we can make a difference! Here are two simple ways to help ensure no South Dakotans go hungry:

1. Make a donation: Every contribution, whether big or small, makes a huge difference. To do so, you can: 
   1. Donate through our website by clicking here 
   2. Mail a check to GROW SD, 104 Ash St E., Sisseton, SD  57262
2. Share Our Campaign: Help us spread the word on social media and in your community! 

Together, We Can Make a Difference

South Dakotans are known for their resilience and generosity. Let’s come together to ensure no one goes hungry during this difficult time!

To donate, please click here or you can mail a check to GROW SD, 104 Ash St E., Sisseton, SD  57262

Thank you for standing with us!