Mayor Brandon Johnson Directs City Funds To Food Pantries, Non-Profits To Address SNAP Cuts

Mayor Brandon Johnson signed an executive order to redirect city funds to food banks and organizations addressing food insecurity in response to changes in SNAP benefits. The executive order aims to bolster food assistance programs that have experienced unprecedented demand following the recent federal government shutdown. While SNAP benefits are being restored, the city anticipates that changes to eligibility requirements will leave many residents without food assistance starting next month. Johnson criticized the Trump administration's policies, stating, “We cannot accept Chicagoans going hungry. ” The city will collaborate with philanthropic partners to ensure food reaches neighborhoods in need.

About 2 million Illinoisans rely on SNAP benefits, which were temporarily halted during the shutdown. Chicago restaurants and community organizations have stepped up to provide free meals to those affected. The city has not disclosed the specific amount of funding allocated for these efforts.