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How Families on SNAP Are Navigating the Holidays
- Family Compassion
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
Families who were already stretching every meal and every dollar are now wondering how to make the holidays feel like holidays at all. In a recent survey, 72% of SNAP recipients said they worry they won’t be able to afford enough food for themselves or their families this holiday season.
As a result, many families are having to shrink their holiday menus, cut out favorite dishes, or decide not to host at all. About half of SNAP households say they will rely on food pantries or community programs to help make ends meet, and nearly half are not planning to host family or friends this year. These choices are not about convenience—they are about survival, and about trying to preserve a sense of normalcy for children despite financial strain.
Holiday Traditions, Reimagined Out of Necessity
For families on SNAP, Thanksgiving and Christmas often look very different than what they hope for. Some are simplifying menus, preparing just one or two favorite dishes instead of a full table, or cutting back on homemade items. Survey respondents indicated that roughly 30% plan a traditional Thanksgiving or Christmas meal, while 28–33% will prepare smaller, simplified meals. Many are also cutting back on extras like decorations, desserts, or hosting guests. The adjustments reflect the reality of having to stretch limited resources while still trying to provide a meaningful experience for loved ones.
Communities Are Stepping Up—But Families Still Need Stability
During the SNAP payment freeze, long lines formed at food pantries, restaurants offered free meals, and neighbors became informal “grocery buddies,” helping families in need. These acts of compassion highlight the strength of communities—but they also underscore how fragile the safety net is for millions of households.
This season, SNAP households are navigating uncertainty, anxiety, and hard choices—yet they are also demonstrating extraordinary resilience, doing everything they can to make the holidays meaningful despite the challenges.