H-E-B donates $6 million to help feed Texans as threat of SNAP benefit cuts continues

Millions of Texans could lose access to federal food assistance starting Nov. 1 if Congress fails to end the government shutdown.

The uncertainty around SNAP benefits comes as H-E-B steps up with a $6 million donation to help food banks and senior programs.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, states will be unable to issue full Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits in November if federal funding remains frozen.

In Texas alone, more than 3.5 million residents, including 1.7 million children, rely on SNAP to help cover their monthly grocery bills.

Advocates warn that if the shutdown continues past October, it could leave families scrambling to put food on the table.

Local food banks say they’re already preparing for a surge in need.

“Any disruption to SNAP would be devastating,” said Celia Cole, CEO of Feeding Texas, in an interview with The Texas Tribune. “Families who are already stretched thin could find themselves without the means to buy food, even for a short time.”

In response to the growing concerns about food insecurity, H-E-B announced a $6 million donation to help feed Texans. The company is giving $5 million to food banks across the state and another $1 million to Meals on Wheels programs that serve homebound seniors.

“H-E-B is proud to stand by our food banks and community partners to ensure no Texan goes hungry,” the company said in a statement. “As the cost of living continues to rise, we remain committed to supporting families in need.”

The grocery chain’s donation comes through its “Food Bank Assistance Program,” which has provided more than 1.5 billion pounds of food since 1982. The money will help organizations like the Houston Food Bank, Central Texas Food Bank, and San Antonio Food Bank restock pantries and deliver meals to seniors.

The Houston Food Bank says it’s already seeing more people turn to its distribution centers amid high grocery costs and lingering inflation. With the threat of SNAP benefits halting, the organization is ramping up outreach efforts.

“We know the need will spike if the government shutdown continues,” said Brian Greene, president and CEO of the Houston Food Bank. “Support from partners like H-E-B allows us to prepare for that surge and meet people where they are.”

Officials recommend that SNAP recipients:

• Check existing EBT balances — October benefits are still available.
• Plan — Consider buying shelf-stable groceries and budgeting for potential delays.
• Seek community help — Call 2-1-1 or visit FeedingTexas.org to find a local food bank.
• Stay informed — Watch for updates from the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) on benefit issuance.