DSS: SNAP recipients in Caswell County to receive half benefit allotment amid federal delay; county readies pantry support
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Summary
Caswell County social services reported Nov. 3 that SNAP recipients will receive half their usual allotment this month amid federal funding delays; retroactive payments remain uncertain.
On Nov. 3 Michelle Waddell, director of Caswell County Department of Social Services, told the Board of Commissioners that state authorities will distribute half of recipients’ SNAP allotments this month because of federal funding constraints tied to the government shutdown. Waddell said nearly 2,000 households in Caswell County—representing approximately 4,000 individuals—receive SNAP benefits.
Waddell and Jennifer Anderson, income maintenance supervisor, said the county does not control timing or the amount of federal disbursements and that retroactive benefits due for prior months are delayed and currently unconfirmed. Social services staff are receiving increased calls from residents and other counties are increasing call‑center staffing to handle demand; Caswell staff urged community partners and residents to support local food pantries where possible.
Waddell said the department will run a nonperishable food drive and has shared a county food pantry contact sheet with commissioners to distribute to constituents. She urged patience from residents and stressed the department will distribute benefits when funds are released by the state/federal authorities.
Why this matters: Disruptions to SNAP benefits can cause immediate food security challenges for households; local social services and community organizations are coordinating emergency supports while awaiting federal payments.
