Help & Resources for Those Affected by the Government Shutdown
The government shutdown has now stretched into its 37th day. Negotiations in Congress continue, with no funding deal reached as of this morning. Federal services remain largely closed, and millions of Americans are now facing financial strain due to missed paychecks and halted benefits. Below is an updated list of verified national and state-level resources to help affected families, workers, and small businesses.
CRITICAL UPDATE: SNAP, WIC, and School Meals
As of November 6, 2025, federal funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) remains frozen. The USDA confirmed that no additional disbursements have been authorized for the month of November. Most states have exhausted carryover funds, and benefit issuance is suspended in 43 states.
Several state governments, including California, New York, and Illinois, have announced emergency stopgap measures to provide partial food assistance using state reserves through November 15. Check with your state’s Department of Human Services or call 211 for your eligibility status.
Immediate Action: Visit a local food bank using the tools below, or contact your local 211 line for same-day food and utility aid referrals.
What to Do Right Now (November 6 Guidance)
- File for State Unemployment: Furloughed and contract workers are eligible in most states. Processing backlogs are common—apply online as soon as possible.
- Contact Creditors Immediately: The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has directed major lenders to extend forbearance for federal employees. Ask for written confirmation of hardship accommodations.
- Healthcare Access: If your insurance coverage lapsed, visit HealthCare.gov to apply for temporary marketplace coverage.
- Child Nutrition: Many public school districts have activated emergency meal programs for children despite the federal lapse. Contact your local district’s food services office.
Food & Nutrition Assistance
SNAP and WIC benefits remain suspended at the federal level. The following organizations are coordinating emergency food support nationwide:
United Way 211
Call 211 or use the online tool for immediate local referrals to food pantries, shelters, and utility aid programs in your ZIP code.
Feeding America
Active across all 50 states. Most regional food banks have extended hours due to increased demand from federal workers.
No Kid Hungry
Find local school and community centers offering free meals for children and families affected by the shutdown.
Financial, Credit & Housing Hardship
Two missed pay periods have left millions of households vulnerable. Relief programs are expanding:
HUD Assistance
HUD is coordinating with state housing authorities to suspend evictions in federally backed housing through at least November 30.
National Foundation for Credit Counseling
Non-profit counselors offering free debt management and hardship negotiation support for furloughed workers.
LIHEAP Energy Aid
Energy and water assistance programs remain available at the state level. Call your provider directly to request emergency suspension of disconnections.
Public Services & Closures
Most federal offices remain closed. Here’s what’s currently affected as of November 6:
- National Parks: 82% closed or unstaffed. Trash and safety issues mounting at several major sites.
- Air Travel: Delays worsening due to unpaid TSA staff shortages.
- Courts: Federal courts operating on limited reserves, projected to exhaust funds by November 18.