The Department of Agriculture said no benefits would be issued for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program on Nov. 1, claiming funding for the critical food stamps program had “run dry” due to the ongoing government shutdown—a claim disputed by Democrats and some policy analysts.

Review The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program is the modern incarnation of what was originally called food stamps. The program was born during the Great Depression, when feeding families was a challenge on a broad scale.

As the ongoing government shutdown threatens food assistance for millions across the nation, lawmakers on both sides of the aisle are voicing concerns.

The federal government provided Colorado more than $6 million annually to use on educational programs like the one offered in the 600-student school district located in the San Luis Valley.