Millions of Californians who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), known in the state as CalFresh, could soon lose their monthly food assistance as the federal government shutdown continues with no resolution in sight.

State officials have begun alerting CalFresh recipients that if Congress does not reach an agreement to reopen the government or extend funding, the program will run out of federal money in less than two weeks. This could abruptly halt food benefits for millions of low-income families, seniors, and individuals who depend on the program to put food on the table each month.

California’s Department of Social Services said the potential loss of SNAP funding would create a “severe humanitarian crisis,” as the state has the largest number of recipients in the nation — more than 5 million people. The agency warned that without immediate federal action, county offices administering CalFresh will have no funds to issue new benefits or continue existing payments beyond early November.

Other states across the country are issuing similar warnings, underscoring the wide-reaching effects of the government shutdown on vulnerable communities. “This isn’t just a budget issue — this is about families being able to eat,” said a spokesperson for the California Department of Social Services. “If the shutdown continues, grocery stores, food banks, and local economies will all feel the impact.”

Anti-hunger advocates say the uncertainty is already causing panic among families who rely on CalFresh to cover basic nutritional needs. Many have started rationing groceries or turning to food pantries in anticipation of losing their benefits.

The CalFresh program provides monthly funds to eligible low-income households to purchase groceries at authorized retailers. The program is federally funded but administered by states, meaning that without congressional action to release funds, the money will stop flowing entirely.

If the government remains closed past the next two weeks, California could face one of the largest food insecurity emergencies in its history — one that state leaders say could push millions into hunger almost overnight.