Impact to SNAP Benefits

Last updated Thursday, 10/30/25, at 10:30 a.m.

What do I need to know?

Tens of thousands of Richmond residents rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), a federal program administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Because of the current federal shutdown, that program will not issue benefits beginning on November 1. On October 28, Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin announced plans to address food insecurity for Virginia SNAP recipients through the Virginia Emergency Nutrition Assistance (VENA) initiative.

A Richmond with thriving families, neighborhoods, and inclusive communities is one where no resident goes to bed hungry. The City of Richmond is continuing to work closely with our local, regional, and state partners to ensure our residents and families have uninterrupted access to food.

This page will contain our most up-to-date news, resources, and information about how to help. Please check back regularly.

Resources

• Frequently Asked Questions for the Virginia Emergency Nutrition Assistance (VENA) initiative.
• The City of Richmond's SNAP benefits page
• Virginia's Department of Social Services page
• Mayor Danny Avula's initial SNAP update for Richmond residents (10/28/29)
• Feed More's "Get Help" site shares pantry locations and additional services
• Looking for additional support with housing, childcare, transportation, or health services? Visit Help1RVA.

Ways to Help

• Donate: The best way for residents to support this ongoing effort is to donate to Feed More (go.rva.gov/feedmore). A $5 donation provides 20 nourishing meals to residents in need. These donations will directly support food distribution in the Richmond region the week of November 4.
• Donate (your time): The Community Foundation for a Greater Richmond will host volunteer opportunities for residents who want to donate their time. More information and sign-up links will be available in the coming days.
• Donate (your food): Feed More will accept donations of food. You can learn more about how and what to donate on feedmore.org.

Updates

• Wednesday, October 29: The Richmond Region announces its partnership with Feed More to continue residents' access to nutritious foods.
• Tuesday, October 28: Governor Youngkin outlines the Virginia Emergency Nutrition Assistance (VENA) initiative, which will provide a state-sponsored, weekly food assistance payment for people who are currently SNAP beneficiaries.
• Thursday, October 23: Governor Youngkin issues a State of Emergency Declaration for hunger relief.
• Friday, October 17: The City of Richmond releases "Resilient Richmond," an initial assessment of impacts from the federal government shutdown.