CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Tens of thousands of Mecklenburg County families received their food and nutrition benefits for February early, while the plans for March remain uncertain.
According to the Mecklenburg County Department of Social Services, Mecklenburg County has the largest food nutrition caseload in the entire state, serving 57,000 households.
DSS Deputy Director Men Tchaas Ari says individuals are used to budgeting one month at a time, so families need to make sure their current benefits last through January and February.
Ari estimates more than 100,000 people rely on food and nutrition benefits, often known as "food stamps." And if the shutdown continues much longer, the situation could become complicated.
“What we’ve been told is that March benefits won’t be loaded until the shutdown is resolved," says Ari. "So there is a big question mark around that and that’s not a good feeling being the safety net for more than 57,000 households.”
Right now, Ari says DSS is actively working with nonprofits and food banks.
If you have a question about your food and nutrition benefits account, call 888-622-7328 for information.