New Yorkers who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, could see their benefits cut off starting Saturday.

The withholding of federal funds that support the program for 42 million Americans, including about 1.8 million New York City residents, during the ongoing government shutdown is now the subject of a federal lawsuit. A ruling is expected by Friday, Oct. 31.

Food banks and pantries across the city, already strained by earlier federal funding cuts this year, are bracing for a surge in demand if the pause in food aid for low-income residents takes effect as planned on Nov. 1.

The New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance said it will notify SNAP households by Saturday about the status of their November benefits.

Year-round, soup kitchens an

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