Missouri State Representative Terry Thompson is encouraging local churches and community groups to prepare to assist residents after the Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS) announced it cannot issue November Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits during the ongoing federal government shutdown. “Due to the ongoing federal shutdown, Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) has directed all state agencies to temporarily suspend the issuance of SNAP benefits for November 2025 as they are 100% federally funded,” said Thompson. “As a result, DSS will not be able to distribute November SNAP benefits until further notice from FNS. This temporary suspension does not include any other changes.” DSS will continue to accept and process SNAP applications, reported changes and mid-certifications received on or after Nov. 1, as normal. Once the shutdown is complete and DSS receives further guidance from FNS, DSS will begin distributing SNAP benefits. “FNS will be in…