North Dakota widow with disabilities fears November SNAP halt amid ongoing government shutdown

BISMARCK, N.D. (KFYR) – Federal food assistance for low-income persons is set to freeze on Saturday because of the gridlock in Washington.

Terry Hornbuckle is a 65-year-old disabled widow, and she wonders how she will be able to make up for SNAP payments if they are paused in November due to the government shutdown.

“Any penny that comes into this house is absolutely pinched until it screams,” said Hornbuckle.

The government shutdown started almost a month ago. Democrats want a resolution on expiring health care tax credits. But Republicans demand that Democrats end the shutdown before they negotiate anything.

“Well, we’re going to get it done. The Democrats have caused the problem on food stamps,” said President Donald Trump.

Hornbuckle is just living off her late husband’s Social Security. She finds it unfathomable that the shutdown is hurting society’s most vulnerable.

“I’m being used as a weapon. I’m marginalized. I’m collateral damage,” said Hornbuckle.

The state Department of Health and Human Services has funds it could use to resume SNAP, but federal rules prevent this.

On Thursday, Governor Kelly Armstrong will announce a plan that could help North Dakotans bridge a possible gap in food assistance after Nov. 1.

Hornbuckle said this would be a meaningful step in the right direction.

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz recently announced that he is sending $4 million in emergency funding to food shelves in advance of the SNAP benefits pausing.

Governor Armstrong’s office has not elaborated on what he is planning to announce on Thursday afternoon. We’ll be at the press conference and let you know the details as soon as we hear them.

Copyright 2025 KFYR. All rights reserved.