As many families across Michigan face changes to the federal food-benefit program Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), we at the United Way of the Eastern Upper Peninsula want to make sure you know what help is available — and how our community can come together to support one another.
What’s Happening with SNAP
Because of the ongoing federal government shutdown, SNAP benefits will be funded but at a limited level for November. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has committed emergency funds to cover about half of the usual monthly benefit amount for current participants. New applicants will not receive benefits under the current funding plan. Many states, food banks and community programs are already feeling the strain. Read more about SNAP funding changes in national reporting here: NPR article on SNAP benefits and the shutdown.
How the Double Up Food Bucks Program Helps
The Fair Food Network (FFN) is stepping in this week through its Double Up Food Bucks Program to help Michigan families who rely on SNAP. FFN’s expanded measures run through December 31, 2025 and include:
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Double Up earnings no longer expire — families can save them as long as they need.
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No more $20 daily earning cap — families can earn as much as they need when buying fresh produce.
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Frozen fruits and vegetables (with no added salt, sugar, or oil) are now eligible at all 237 locations in the state.
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Starting November 1: a $40 Bonus Bucks voucher that does not require a SNAP purchase to receive. It can be used on fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables. These vouchers will expire December 31, 2025.
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The program’s goal: to reach as many families as possible, keep healthy food on tables, and support local grocers and farmers.
What Michigan SNAP beneficiaries should know
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Any SNAP dollars already on your EBT card can still be used.
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Previously earned Double Up Food Bucks remain available.
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Double Up is available year-round at grocery stores—even though the farmers market season may be winding down.
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For more details, visit DoubleUpFoodBucks.org or FairFoodNetwork.org.
Community Resources If You’re Struggling
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Call 2-1-1 to be connected with local resources in your area. Even if you know of resources, calling helps us track community impact so we can advocate for change.
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Use the SNAP Response webpage launched by the Michigan Association of United Ways to find up-to-date support.
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Find a food pantry through the Feed America West Michigan directory — many local pantries are seeing increased demand as SNAP support is reduced.
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Food banks cannot sustain the long-term removal or heavy reduction of SNAP benefits alone — the burden is too great, and the demand too high.
How You Can Help
Donate Food:
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Contribute food staples to local food pantries listed via Feed America West Michigan.
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Many local schools also house food pantries for students during weekends and school breaks — those can use your support too.
Donate Money:
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Use our website to donate funds to help local food pantries and make sure families get help during this transitional moment.
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The United Way of the EUP is also collecting Holiday Baskets for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Our goal: 50 baskets across the EUP. Register by Thursday, Nov. 20 to be notified.
Volunteer Your Time:
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We need volunteers for our 300-meal Thanksgiving dinner—help with setup, serving, cleanup, or delivery.
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We also need help with delivery of the holiday baskets and purchasing supplies for our Holiday Spirit program.
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Office help, event photography, storytelling—any contribution helps us raise awareness and support.
Advocate:
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Spread the word about United Way of the EUP and the community resources we support.
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Consider workplace giving, payroll deduction, a dress-down day fundraiser, or simply letting others know: “We’re here and ready to help.”
Together We LIVE UNITED
At United Way of the Eastern Upper Peninsula, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to succeed—in school, in work, and in health. Right now, many families face uncertainty. But when our community comes together, we grow stronger. Let’s join forces, fill the gaps, and make sure no one is left behind.
We are here for you. We want to hear from you. We want to help our neighbors thrive. Together, we live united.
