The Knox County Department of Job & Family Services managed to avoid layoffs and early retirements that seemed imminent before the resolution of the federal government shutdown, Director Scott Boone informed the Knox Board of Commissioners during their meeting on November 20.
"We did receive some good news that job and family services in terms of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, the food stamps, as they're traditionally known, as you probably aware," Boone said. "Those were approved through the end of Sept. 26. There was a partial payment issued to recipients in November."
Boone explained that approximately 65% of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) clients' allotments were being made in full. He noted they were advised that the remaining 35% would also be paid out to families, though he was uncertain about the funding stream.
Boone further said that the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program, which provides cash benefits for families, was funded only through January 2026. Knox County receives its reimbursements from this fund. Despite funding uncertainties, Boone mentioned that while there were uncomfortable conversations within the department, no layoffs occurred. Some traditional retirements took place but no early retirements.
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine authorized $25 million for food pantries across the state, according to Boone. The department has been active on social media and its website to inform families about alternative options for nutrition and food assistance.
Boone highlighted that Knox County had 2,788 families receiving SNAP benefits, accounting for 5,299 individuals. The TANF program in Knox serves 11 families. Statewide, there are 1.4 million SNAP recipients with roughly $3 billion injected into Ohio's economy through this program.
