Virginia is launching an emergency program to ensure families don’t go hungry when federal SNAP benefits pause due to the government shutdown, becoming the first state in the nation to use state funds for food assistance benefits.

Two essential, federally funded programs offered in Hanover County will continue in November despite the ongoing government shutdown.

Youngkin said the plan will be paid for through the commonwealth’s budget surplus, which administration officials credit to “strong fiscal management.” He also authorized $1 million in state funds for Virginia food banks to help offset shortages and make sure families can find food locally if needed.

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program — more commonly known as SNAP, or food stamps — is a key benefits program that serves more than 40 million people across the country. Now, the shutdown is threatening to suspend benefits, raising concerns over where millions of people who rely on the program will turn to for food.

Virginia has the money to cover the cost of distributing food assistance benefits for the month of November, said Gov. Glenn Youngkin as he discussed the state’s plan to stand up a parallel

The Virginia Emergency Nutrition Assistance program, or VENA, would begin if the government shutdown is not resolved before Saturday, Nov. 1.