11/03/2025
Some SUNY Cortland students wonder where their next meal is coming from, including those facing delays in receiving the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits due to the current federal government shutdown.
Lauren Scagnelli ’12, M ’14, the university’s health and wellness program coordinator, recently offered information on the impact of the indefinite delay in SNAP benefits, as well as the local food resources that are still available.
She advised that, for SNAP EBT Card users, effective Nov. 1, the existing balance of any funds currently loaded onto one’s card from October, or previous months will remain available, and the card will continue to work at SNAP-authorized retailers. Currently, no new SNAP payments are scheduled to be issued for the month of November.
The SUNY Cortland Cupboard is the campus food pantry and a major resource for any student experiencing food insecurity, according to Scagnelli. It’s open to students in need of food and personal hygiene items at no cost.
“If you are unable to find what you need at the SUNY Cortland Cupboard, please let us know,” Scagnelli said. She encourages students who use the Cupboard to fill out the Cupboard form.
Members of the campus community may find additional food resources at Cortland County’s food pantries and soup kitchens. Students can find additional help using this interactive map of New York state food resources.
For the campus community as a whole, it’s an excellent time of year to consider making a financial donation to the SUNY Cortland Cupboard.
Or individuals can contribute directly to the Cupboard by placing their nonperishable and unexpired food items on the table next to the Cupboard in Old Main, Room B-05, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. The pantry’s donation website contains a list of suggested items to give.
For more information, contact lauren.scagnelli@cortland.edu.