Millions of families rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)—also known as food stamps—to help buy groceries. During the recent government shutdown, SNAP benefits were delayed or reduced in many states.
SNAP helps feed about 16 million children across the country. It's a big part of how families stay healthy and strong. Without it, many parents have been facing tough choices. It helps to know that there are other ways to get food assistance.
How to get food assistance during the government shutdown
Check Your EBT card balance
If you did not receive SNAP assistance during the shutdown but still have funds left from the previous electronic benefits transfer (EBT), they should still be available to use. Here are tips that can help you plan and shop for healthy meals on a limited budget.
Find a local food bank
Food banks and food pantries, which offer free groceries, are stepping up to help families during the shutdown. Find one near you through the
Feeding America Food Bank Locator.
Look for state or local emergency food help
Some states, cities, community organizations, churches and businesses are offering emergency food programs for families not receiving their usual SNAP assistance. Visit your state's SNAP website or call your local office to ask about:
You can use findhelp.org or 211.org Food Resource Finder to search for these programs. Your pediatrician's office is also a great resource.
Other food assistance programs that may still be available
Even if SNAP is paused, other federal nutrition programs may still be active, including:
WIC (Women, Infants and Children)
If you're pregnant, recently pregnant, breastfeeding or have children under age 5, you or your family members may qualify for WIC. This program provides food, formula and nutrition support.
School meals
Children who attend school may still get free or reduced-price meals through the
National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program. Most schools are continuing to serve meals during the shutdown.
Feeding your baby safely during the shutdown
If you're having trouble affording formula, it's important to know what’s safe—and what’s not—when feeding your baby. Keep in mind:
Do not water down formula to make it last longer. Watered-down formula does not provide the correct balance of fluids and nutrients babies need and can quickly cause serious health problems. Always follow formula label instructions or those given to you by your pediatrician.
Don't make homemade formula. You may see online recipes for
homemade baby formula, but they also may not have the right mix of nutrients for infants. Plus, homemade formula can be contaminated or carry germs, which can make your baby sick.
If you need help getting formula for your baby:
Contact WIC or your pediatrician's office, which may have ideas of other places to call. They may also have formula samples or coupons from manufacturers available.
Ask your local food bank if they have formula or baby food available.
Share your story
Your voice matters. Consider sharing your story by reaching out to your local member of Congress. Describe how nutrition programs like SNAP has helped your family and why continued support is essential.
Remember: you're not alone
This is a stressful time, but help is out there. Pediatricians, schools and community groups are working together to make sure children don't go hungry. If you're not sure where to start, talk to your child's doctor. They can help connect you with local resources.
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