Government Shutdown
As we navigate the uncertain terrain of a potential government shutdown, Feeding Northeast Florida remains committed to serving our communities. The looming government shutdown, triggered by Congress’s failure to pass a budget, could have significant repercussions for individuals and families in Florida.
We understand the importance of providing nourishment to individuals and families in need.
If you are in need of food, here’s how we can support you:
Locate A Pantry Near You: Discover the nearest food pantries to your location by using this link. We are committed to ensuring that everyone has access to nutritious food.
Community Food Distributions: Feeding Northeast Florida regularly hosts Mobile Food Distributions, where we directly provide food to individuals and families. These events are open to everyone, and we encourage you to attend. Each car receives enough food for a family, and the products available may vary from event to event. Keep an eye on our Facebook page for details on upcoming distributions.
Food and Nutrition Services Outreach: Our dedicated Food and Nutrition Services Outreach team is here to assist you in applying for SNAP (formerly Food Stamps) over the phone. Visit our webpage to see if you qualify and get assistance with your application https://feedingnefl.org/snap-medicaid-assistance/
Key Dates to Remember:
We stand with you through these uncertain times, ready to provide essential support to our communities. Together, we can make a difference and ensure no one goes hungry in our region. Contact your representatives and senators to urge them to act and prevent a government shutdown. Your voice matters.
- October 1 (Day 1): Potential government shutdown begins.
- October 4 (Day 4): Federal employees are expected to receive scheduled paychecks.
- October 13 (Day 13): Congress must pass a spending agreement by this date to prevent disruption to federal paychecks.
- October 18 (Day 18): First missed paycheck for federal employees.
- November 1 (Day 32): Second missed paycheck for federal employees; SNAP benefits unlikely to be available for the month, potentially causing a loss of around $7.5 billion in purchasing power, and WIC benefits and services may be incomplete and disrupted.
Government Shutdown Impact in Florida – September 26, 2023
As we navigate the uncertain terrain of a potential government shutdown, Feeding Northeast Florida remains committed to serving our communities. The looming government shutdown, triggered by Congress’s failure to pass a budget, could have significant repercussions for individuals and families in Florida.
SNAP (Food Stamps): The USDA has options to ensure uninterrupted funding for SNAP in the event of a shutdown. October SNAP benefits will be available as usual, but if the shutdown continues into November, benefits could be incomplete.
The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP): TEFAP food orders are expected to be delivered as scheduled through December 2023.
WIC: Funding for WIC will become unstable as soon as the shutdown is confirmed, leaving millions of women and children vulnerable to food insecurity.
Child Nutrition Programs: School, summer, and afterschool meal programs will continue to provide meals to children without disruption.
Medicare/Medicaid: Delays in reimbursement and payments due to staff shortages may be the primary effects on Medicare and Medicaid services during a government shutdown.
Social Security: Social Security checks will continue to be mailed on time as they are funded through taxes and long-term investments.