WAYNE COUNTY, N.C. – Thousands of Wayne County families who depend on Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) benefits may face disruptions in November due to the ongoing federal government shutdown, according to an announcement from state and local health officials.

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) and Wayne County Department of Health and Human Services issued the warning after receiving notice from federal authorities that the shutdown could impact the regular distribution of FNS benefits, formerly known as food stamps.

Uncertain Timeline and Benefit Amounts

While officials continue to work with state and federal partners to assess the full scope of the situation, preliminary concerns include potential delays in benefit distribution and possible adjustments to the usual benefit amounts and payment schedules.

“We understand how vital FNS benefits are to households across Wayne County and North Carolina,” officials stated in the announcement. “We are committed to sharing accurate and timely updates as soon as we receive further guidance from the federal government.”

Details surrounding the extent and duration of potential disruptions remain under development as agencies await further federal guidance.

Resources for Affected Residents

State and local officials are urging FNS recipients to take proactive steps while the situation unfolds:

Monitor Your Benefits: Residents can check their current EBT balance through the ebtEDGE mobile app or by calling the customer service number printed on the back of their EBT card.

Stay Informed: The most current information will be posted on the NCDHHS FNS website at www.ncdhhs.gov/fns.

Identify Alternative Food Resources: Families are encouraged to locate nearby assistance through the North Carolina Food Access Maps, available at www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/child-and-family-well-being/food-and-nutrition-services-foodstamps/north-carolina-state-nutrition-action-coalition/food-access-maps.

Connect with Local Support: Residents can access information about food pantries, meal programs, and other essential services 24 hours a day by dialing 2-1-1 or visiting www.nc211.org.

Ongoing Monitoring

Both Wayne County DHHS and NCDHHS have pledged to continue monitoring the federal shutdown situation closely and will release additional information as it becomes available.

The agencies emphasized their commitment to supporting affected families and ensuring residents have access to accurate, timely updates throughout this uncertain period.