On Nov. 1, federal authorities say funding will run out for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, which helps lower-income families pay for food.

For many families in Billings, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) makes the difference between having food on the table or going without.

A Billings nonprofit began offering free weekend meals last Saturday with the hope to cushion community members if they lose their SNAP benefits in November.

The federal government says food assistance payments won’t be sent in November, due to the government shutdown. Some states are stepping in to cover the tab. Montana is not likely to do so.

Montana Democrats urge Gov. Gianforte to use state funds to prevent 77,000 residents from losing SNAP benefits during the federal shutdown.

HELENA, Mont. (KUMV) - Montana is not expected to take any action on addressing the potential suspension of SNAP funding. A spokesperson for Governor Greg Gianforte’s office says while the governor believes these benefits are vital for vulnerable Montanans, the state would not be able to fund the program without promises for reimbursement.

As a way to support the 12,000 Yellowstone County families who won't be receiving SNAP benefits this November, Justin "McLovin" Hutchinson is giving away $1,700 in nonperishable food on Halloween.

More than 40 million Americans rely on SNAP, including around 80,000 Montanans. According to the USDA, because of the government shutdown no benefits will be issued on Nov. 1.