What the Government Shutdown Means for Food Assistance
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A government shutdown means uncertainty for our neighbors across the country who access the support provided by federal nutrition programs. Feeding America is not alone in our understanding that families everywhere are on the brink of, or have already been forced to make, impossible choices between food and other necessities like housing and health care.
While we can’t say how long the shutdown will last, know this: The Feeding America network of food banks, pantries and other meal programs is committed to doing everything we can to help families that have been affected by the shutdown.
We put together an FAQ on how the shutdown will impact programs that help people access food.
Updated 11/4/25
What does the government shutdown mean for for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) grocery benefits?
SNAP benefits in November will be delayed and significantly reduced. Each state may be affected differently, depending on how much money is available. Some states have announced they will use state funding to continue providing SNAP benefits.
If you already have SNAP money on your EBT card from previous months, you can still use it.
Please continue to look to local and state agencies for your most up to date information.
Can people still apply for SNAP benefits?
Yes, even if the federal government is shut down, you can still apply for SNAP. However, if you apply for SNAP in November, your application should be processed, but it is unclear when you will receive benefits. If you aren’t already enrolled in the program, the Feeding America network can help you apply for SNAP.
What does the government shutdown mean for Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) benefits?
As the shutdown continues into mid-November, WIC benefits may be disrupted. The status of this program will vary by state based on the available funding. Your local WIC office can provide more information on how benefits may be impacted in your state.
What does the government shutdown mean for school meals?
In November, meal programs for children are expected to operate as normal. This includes school breakfast, lunch, and after-school meals offered through the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP). Please stay in touch with your local school or program operator about the availability of breakfasts, lunches and snacks if the shutdown continues into late-November.
What does the shutdown mean for people who participate in the USDA’s senior food box program?
Most food box distributions or deliveries in the The Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) should occur as planned in November, but please stay in touch with your site or program operator for the most up-to-date information in your local area.
What does the government shutdown mean for federal employees and people who work for federal contractors?
People who work for federal contractors may have seen their pay disrupted immediately after the shutdown began. Federal civilian employees received a partial paycheck on Oct. 15 and missed their first full paycheck on Oct. 29.
Food banks across the country are available to everyone, including federal employees, people who work for a federal contractor and other individuals impacted by the shutdown. Although there are rules that prohibit federal employees from accepting gifts from the public, they are allowed to receive charitable assistance from nonprofits and other organizations that aid their communities.
If you meet the eligibility requirements, you can also apply for SNAP—a program that provides monthly funds to help people buy groceries. If you aren’t already enrolled in the program, the Feeding America network can help you apply for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
How can I find a food bank near me?
Your local food bank can help you and your neighbors find food today. The food bank partners with food pantries and meal programs in your community to provide free food.
Find the food bank closest to you. Our tool can search your area by ZIP code and state.