Lake County job services: SNAP and Ohio Works First payments expected in October; longer shutdown impact uncertain

A representative from Lake County Job and Family Services updated the Board of Commissioners on potential effects of the federal government shutdown on public assistance programs.

The agency said benefit payments funded by the federal government — including SNAP (food assistance) and Ohio Works First cash assistance — are scheduled to be paid normally in October. However, staff said they cannot predict the outcome if a shutdown continues beyond October. The department also said it does not currently expect Medicaid coverage to be affected but that it will monitor the situation.

The representative noted that applications processed and found eligible before Oct. 1 or processed in October will result in October payments. Customers with pending applications that are determined eligible would receive October benefits. The county office will remain open during the shutdown and provided a phone line for benefit inquiries: (844) 640-6446.

The remarks came during departmental reports; no formal action or vote accompanied the update.