City and city school officials warned residents at the City School Liaison Committees Oct. 30 meeting that SNAP benefits could be interrupted in November due to a federal government shutdown and urged families to monitor a city resource page for updates.

"Due to the federal government shutdown, SNAP recipients may experience an interruption in their benefits in November," City Manager Luke Stowe told the committee, and directed residents to cityofevanston.org/snapresources for the latest information.

Why it matters: School meal programs provide an immediate safety net for many families. District 202 and District 65 officials told the committee they had taken steps to ensure in-school meal continuity regardless of federal funding status.

Marcus Campbell, superintendent of District 202, said ETHS would continue to provide free and reduced-price lunch and that after-school meals "will continue without interruption regardless of federal funding delays." He added the district has for years offered after-school meals to support families participating in activities or working after school hours.

District 65 leaders told the committee they were "in alignment" with District 202 and the city on communicating supports and coordinating with the health department.

Practical supports: Stowe announced the city will operate an emergency food and mutual-aid drive from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 2, at the ETHS Field House parking lot and encouraged donations of nonperishable goods. City staff said they are also tracking a pending legal decision from Boston that could affect benefit continuity and will update the public as more information becomes available.

What officials asked of residents: Officials urged families to check the citys SNAP resources page, make use of school meal programs, and consider donating to the Nov. 2 drive. "This is obviously a very fluid situation and we're continuing to monitor, and we'll share more information as it becomes available," Stowe said.

Ending: City and school staff said they would maintain frequent communication and update parents and community partners as developments occur.