Grambling State University students fear that the outcome of the federal government shutdown will immediately influence their daily lives.
However, as long as the disputes between President Barack Obama and Congress are dissolved quickly, they should not worry.
The food stamp program (properly named the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), which is some students’ main concern, is not in jeopardy.
“I’m grateful we will receive our food stamps this month,” said Micah Gholston, a senior psychology major. “If we didn’t receive them, it would cause more financial stress because I would be forced to pay cash money for food and college student doesn’t have much money.”
According to the Department of Children and Family Services, recipients of SNAP will receive their aid for this month.
“Your October benefits will not be impacted by the federal shutdown,” said the recording on the department’s hotline. “Please continue to check back here for continued updates.”
In addition to food stamps, child-care assistance and cash assistance will be loaded on the regular time.
Low-income, pregnant women and mothers with young children, who are currently being assisted by the Women, Infants & Children program are temporarily covered.
U.S. Sen. Patrick Jefferson of the District 11 said there is “enough money for the immediate future for WIC. But if the government shutdown continues, that money will run out.”
Ken Pastorick, Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals spokesman, told KATC news, “Current WIC benefits must still be honored by vendors, such as grocery stores.”
Unfortunately, low-income, pregnant women and mothers with young children who have yet to register for government assistance will experience the negative effects of the government shutdown now. They will not be able to apply for WIC.
Another major food aid program that will be forced to alter the way it operates is the Commodities Supplemental Food Program.
The lapse in federal government funding means the CSFP will not be able to operate.
The CSFP not only serves low-income pregnant women, but also children ranging from infants to six year olds and citizens who are at least 60 years old.