AKWESASNE – (Kentenhkó:wa/November 4, 2025) During the ongoing U.S. Government shutdown, the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe is providing resources to Tribal members experiencing interruptions in benefits affecting the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) and the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
The Trump administration confirmed compliance with the recent ruling to use contingency funds to fund the SNAP benefits. SNAP benefits supply food security to over 42 million Americans, including members of our community.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told CNN’s State of the Union that the government would not appeal. “There is a process that has to be followed,” he said. “We’re already working to comply with the court’s order.” Bessent added that process could see benefits reactivated by Wednesday, November 5th.
However, the administration stated that only $4.65 billion was available to pay for SNAP benefits, which is roughly half of the $8 billion in food assistance payments people receive every month. SNAP benefits issued may be only a percentage of the normal monthly benefits community members receive.
As a response to the government shutdown and impacts on supplemental food programs, the Tribe is encouraging community members to contact the following programs:
- The SRMT Community Advocacy Program at (518) 358-4406 or (518) 358-3021.
- Mohawk Indian Housing Corporation at (518) 358-4860.
- For emergency assistance outside of normal business hours, please contact the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Police dispatch at (518) 358-9200.
HEAP – LIHEAP
Tribal members who are eligible for (HEAP/LIHAEP) may provide the 2024-2025 award letters and request a helping hand through the Tribe’s Compliance Department for heating assistance for qualified households at (518) 358-2273.
On Saturday, November 22nd, the Tribe will be hosting a community-wide food distribution, more details on the event will be shared once they are available.
The Tribe is committed to ensuring no family goes without food or heat during this difficult time.
Stay up-to-date on Tribal news and notices by visiting www.srmt-nsn.gov.
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The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Council is the duly elected and federally recognized government of the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe.