In an unprecedented situation, millions of Americans could lose access to a crucial food assistance program in the coming weeks amid the federal government shutdown.

Here’s what SNAP benefits are, who funds them, the average amount that participants will be missing next month and some food assistance resources.

President Trump has given conflicting statements on whether his administration will fund SNAP benefits despite court orders. The potential loss of SNAP benefits could affect 855,000 Arizona residents, with state and local aid unable to cover the shortfall.

On Monday, the Trump administration said they will send partial payments for November to the 42 million Americans currently receiving SNAP benefits.

President Donald Trump's administration said on Monday it plans to partially fund November food benefits for millions of Americans, but warned it could take some states weeks or months to calculate and distribute the aid.

Officials from half the states and the District of Columbia are asking a federal judge to order the Department of Agriculture to provide food stamp benefits for November.

The states argue the Trump administration should use an emergency fund for the programme, which helps about 40 million people.

CNN is kicking off its annual Call to Earth Day, an initiative celebrating individuals who are protecting the planet and combating climate change. This year’s theme, Guard Your Green Space, invites people to show how they’re preserving their shared spaces for future generations.