President Donald Trump said Tuesday that federal food benefits won’t be distributed until after Democrats agree to reopen the government. Hours later, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt contradicted the president, saying food benefits would go out after all.

The president said on social media on Nov. 4 that he won't fund food assistance until "Radical Left Democrats" end shutdown.

Trump's announcement contradicts federal court orders and USDA's plan to provide partial benefits, drawing criticism from lawmakers and former officials.

"Jimmy Kimmel Live!" has launched a food drive to support the LA Food Bank and the St. Joseph Center, as Trump threatens to stop SNAP benefits.

Nebraska food pantries and anti-hunger advocates were somewhat relieved but racked with questions and concerns this week after learning that, despite the federal government shutdown, about half of November public grocery benefits are expected to flow to the state’s SNAP recipients.

A woman in New York State who voted for President Donald Trump says she regrets her vote after the federal government shutdown disrupted Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. Betty Szretter, 63, is a caregiver for her daughter who relies on SNAP.

The Trump administration said it will fund the food assistance program in part this month. The threat of a lapse has incited chaos in Washington, on social media and at food banks nationwide.

Mecklenburg County is rolling out $740,000 in emergency food assistance to support county residents who depend on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. Why it matters: SNAP benefits,