Food delivery services launch initiatives in response to lapse in SNAP benefits

Two major food delivery services, Gopuff and DoorDash, are contributing to federal food aid programs amid the government shutdown.  

DoorDash is launching an “Emergency Food Response,” and Gopuff is donating up to $10 million in free groceries as federal food aid is set to run out starting Saturday.

These moves come as the Department of Agriculture said no Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program funding will be available beginning on Saturday, due to the government shutdown.

SNAP provides food benefits to roughly 42 million people per month.

DoorDash announced Monday that it will be partnering with grocers to waive delivery and service fees for an estimated 300,000 orders for SNAP recipients. DoorDash will also be delivering 1 million free meals through food banks and donating fresh food, shelf-stable items and household essentials.

“We know this is a stopgap, not a solution. But doing nothing simply isn’t an option,” said Max Rettig, DoorDash’s vice president and global head of public policy.

Gopuff is offering a $50 credit for SNAP-eligible items, broken into two $25 credits during November, committing up to $10 million in total relief.

DoorDash called on Congress, companies, organizations and individuals to “do their part.”

“Our response alone cannot match the scale of this crisis. The federal government’s role is irreplaceable,” the statement read. “This is an opportunity for Congress to come together and find a way to continue to fund this essential program that keeps Americans from going hungry.”