Dear Neighbors,
As many of you have heard, the ongoing federal government shutdown has reached a devastating new stage. Starting November 1, 2025, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits have been completely suspended across the United States.
That means 3.5 million Texans and 1.7 million Texas children are losing access to the food assistance they depend on. Here in Texas, that translates to $617 million in lost monthly food purchasing power, money that would have gone directly into our grocery stores, local economies, and family dinner tables.
This crisis is not inevitable. Unfortunately, Republican leaders in Washington are now trying to force a false choice — demanding Americans pick between feeding their families or keeping their health coverage. Texans shouldn’t be collateral damage in a manufactured political standoff.
In response, I’m proud to announce that Texas House Democratic Caucus have launched a Committee on the Texas Hunger Crisis, which I will co-chair alongside Rep. Toni Rose (D-Dallas). Our committee will:
Investigate the impacts of this federal shutdown on Texas families,
Develop emergency solutions and resources that Democratic members can immediately offer in their districts, and
Coordinate a statewide response to make sure no Texan faces hunger alone.
For anyone directly affected by the loss of SNAP benefits or delayed paychecks, the Houston Food Bank has launched special food distributions to provide quick access to healthy groceries. You can learn more here: Houston Food Bank Special Distributions for Neighbors Experiencing SNAP Benefit Interruptions
Even if your benefits or pay have not been interrupted, you are welcome to access help through the Houston Food Bank’s regular partner network. Visit their website or call 2-1-1 to locate the nearest food distribution site.
Texans have always looked out for one another, especially in hard times. As your state representative, I will continue fighting for the resources and leadership we need to keep families fed and communities strong.
In service,
