by Contributor | November 1, 2025 9:31 am
OSWEGO COUNTY – Oswego County reminds residents to be aware of the impact the ongoing federal government shutdown has on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Recipients may notice that their benefits do not appear on their electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards as early as tomorrow, Nov. 1, due to the pause in federal payments.
“The coming days may be a very difficult time for many Oswego County residents, so I encourage citizens to reach out to neighbors or those they know who may need help,” said Oswego County Legislature Chairman James Weatherup. “If you are able, donate food or money to local food pantries and churches; every little bit helps. County governments cannot add money to SNAP EBT cards, but our DSS office is prepared and ready to help those who qualify for emergency assistance.”
The Oswego County Department of Social Services (DSS) continues to process all SNAP and Temporary Assistance (TA) applications and re-certifications as usual. Recipients should keep all their scheduled appointments, attend interviews and provide any requested documentation. These steps will help ensure that benefits are ready for immediate release when the federal government authorizes New York State to transmit funds.
Earlier this week, Governor Kathy Hochul declared a State of Emergency in response to the federal shutdown’s impact on SNAP. This allows the State and its partner agencies to speed up food purchases and contracts that supply regional food banks and community pantries.
Over $65 million in new state funding will support the Hunger Prevention and Nutrition Assistance Program (NPNAP), which provides emergency food relief, and Nourish NY, which moves surplus agricultural products to those in need.
“These actions don’t create a new benefit through local DSS offices,” said Oswego County Department of Social Services Commissioner Lee Sullivan. “Instead, it enables the State and its non-profit partners to move resources more quickly through the emergency food network, so help can reach the households who rely on food pantries while federal funding remains on hold.”
The impact of the shutdown and delay in SNAP benefits affects over 9,200 households (or 16,601 individuals) in Oswego County. These households include families, children, pregnant women, veterans and seniors.
DSS advised residents that cash assistance and supportive service payments are not affected by the federal shutdown and will continue without interruption.
Emergency Food Assistance
Residents in need of immediate food support may access local food pantries and other nutrition programs. Go to Feeding America[1] to find the regional food bank or visit www.oswegocountyny.gov[2] for a list of verified food pantries, soup kitchens and other food distribution sites.
The agency will continue to coordinate with local food providers and community partners as additional resources become available and share any verified updates. For more local details, call DSS at 315-963-5000.
Help For Seniors
Oswego County Office for the Aging Director Sara Sunday said their department continues to work with Oswego County Opportunities to provide nutrition services and programs that support older residents.
“Oswego County offers two meal services to seniors aged 60 and older,” she said. “There is a home delivered meals program and six congregate dining facilities located around the county. Both programs are contribution based; however, no senior will be denied a meal due to their inability to contribute.”
For those seniors who are homebound, transportation to a congregate meal site is also available.
Lend a Hand
To request that a food program or resource be added to the County’s list, call 315-349-8322.
To make a donation contact one of the following locations:
Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)
The opening of the 2025-2026 regular HEAP season remains delayed until Nov. 17 due to the federal shutdown. Residents experiencing a heating emergency before that date may contact Oswego County DSS at 315-963-5000 to determine if they qualify for a one-time emergency Temporary Assistance payment to address immediate heating needs. Seniors can reach out to the County’s Office for the Aging at 315-349-3484 for more information and assistance.
For more information about the shutdown, go to the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance website at otda.ny.gov/shutdown[3].
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