Highland Park Shares Resources For Residents Affected By Suspended SNAP Benefits

HIGHLAND PARK, IL — The city of Highland Park is working with nearby municipalities to assist residents in response to the ongoing federal government shut down and paused distribution of SNAP benefits.

Alongside Moraine Township and West Deerfield Township, Highland Park is encouraging the public to donate to help their neighbors in need.

According to the Northern Illinois Food Bank, an 8 percent increase in pantry visits has been observed since the federal government shutdown began, alongside a 40 percent increase in SNAP hotline calls.

Community members who would like information about obtaining emergency food or financial assistance may reach out to Moraine Township at 847-432-3240, West Deerfield Township at 847-945-0614 and 211 Lake County.

More information about acceptable donations and food pantry hours can be found here.

An analysis of USDA Food and Nutrition Service data by the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities shows that 1,935,600 Illinois residents, that’s 15 percent of the state population (1 in 7), depend on benefits to keep food on the table.

According to the data, more than 60 percent of SNAP participants in Illinois are families with
children, and 33 percent have family members who are elderly or disabled. In the fiscal year 2022, most Illinois SNAP participants have incomes below the poverty line, according to the data.

In 2024, participants in Illinois received $4.47 billion in benefits, averaging approximately $192 for each household member per month.

The Illinois Application for Benefits and Eligibility said unless further action is taken from the Trump administration to reopen the government, benefits cannot be administered. State officials said they are awaiting further guidance from the federal government, and are posting updates at snapfederalimpact.illinois.gov.