How to Get Help if Your Benefits Stop During a Government Shutdown

If a government shutdown halts your benefits, it can be overwhelming—but you don’t have to go through it alone. All across the country, neighbors, nonprofits, churches, and mutual aid groups are stepping up to fill the gap. You don’t need to wait on Washington. There’s help available now, right in your own community.

In this guide, we’ll walk through how to get support for food, housing, bills, child-related costs, and more. Whether the shutdown is long or short, these steps can help you stay afloat.

Secure Food for Your Household

Food is the most urgent need during any crisis. Fortunately, there are several ways to access free groceries and hot meals, even if your SNAP benefits are delayed.

Start by checking out our detailed guide on how to get free food during the shutdown. It covers every option we could find, including some creative ideas you may not have considered.

You can also use the 211 helpline to find food programs near you. We’ve found their website is often more reliable than calling, but both are worth trying. Feeding America’s food bank locator is another helpful tool. Since some food banks are already under pressure, it’s important to register early. Some locations require an application or documentation before you can receive assistance.

Local efforts like Lasagna Love connect volunteers with people in need by delivering home-cooked meals. There’s no eligibility requirement—just sign up and request a meal. You can also search for mutual aid groups on Facebook or Nextdoor to find neighbors who are sharing food, delivering groceries, or organizing pantry swaps. For more details, check out our video on food resources during the shutdown.

Keep a Roof Over Your Head

If your income is disrupted, housing is often the next big concern. Even though programs like LIHEAP will continue through December, it’s a good idea to prepare now.

Talk to your landlord or mortgage company as soon as possible. Let them know your situation and ask about options. Early communication can go a long way. If you’re renting, visit our rent assistance directory to find help in your state.

Churches, nonprofits, and mutual aid groups sometimes offer emergency housing grants or help with deposits. 211.org and FindHelp.org also list local resources, so be sure to explore those as well. The sooner you apply, the better your chances.

Get Help with Bills

When money is tight, bills can pile up fast. While emergency cash programs are rare, there are grants and nonprofits that can pay bills directly on your behalf.

Start with your local community action agency or mutual aid network. These groups often know what help is available nearby. If you need help with utilities, call your provider. Many companies are expecting more requests and may be able to connect you with programs or offer flexible payment plans.

Churches often have benevolence funds for one-time emergencies. If you’re unsure where to turn, we’ve compiled a long list of places that help with hardship grants and emergency financial assistance. Use those resources to cover the essentials and create some breathing room in your budget.

Caring for Children

If you have kids, you know how expensive they can be—especially during tough times. The good news is that school meal programs are expected to continue, even if other services are interrupted. If your children aren’t already enrolled in the free or reduced-price meal program, now’s the time to contact your school and sign up.

Some districts offer take-home meals for weekends or breaks, too.For diapers and formula, clothing, or holiday gifts, reach out to local nonprofits in your area. Many communities have diaper banks or church-run programs that can help with baby essentials. If you’re not sure where to start, check with 211, your local WIC office, or a nearby food pantry—they often know where to send you.

Facebook mom groups and Buy Nothing communities are great places to find free items and connect with others in similar situations. These groups often go beyond kids and can help adults as well.

Don’t Overlook Health and Mental Health

Your physical and mental health matter, especially in times of stress. Open enrollment is still active, so if you’re on Medicare or another plan, it’s a good time to review your options and make sure you’re getting the best coverage for your needs.

Community health centers usually remain open during shutdowns. These clinics often provide medical, dental, and mental health care on a sliding scale. Don’t wait to reach out if you’re struggling emotionally—there are helplines and local services that can help. We’ll be publishing another video soon about getting mental health support, so keep an eye out for that.

Protect Yourself from Scams

Scammers love a crisis. Be especially careful during a shutdown. Real assistance programs will never ask for your password, and they won’t charge you to apply.

If a website looks suspicious, check the address—trust .gov sites over .org or .com, and when in doubt, reach out to us. If something feels off, report it to the FTC and move on. Urgent texts about unlocking SNAP cards or verifying Social Security numbers are almost always scams.

It’s smart to keep a trusted list of resources, like 211, a local church, and your community center. That way, you can check with a known source before handing over personal information.

Plan Ahead When You Can

When this crisis passes, take a moment to think ahead. We know it’s hard when you’re living paycheck to paycheck, but even small preparations can help. Stock up on inexpensive staples like rice, beans, and canned foods when possible. Save the contact info for your local library, church, and mutual aid groups. These small steps can make a big difference next time.

Relief Recap

In times like this, it’s all about making the most of what’s available. Even if your top priority isn’t covered, getting help with food or utility bills could free up money for rent or other essentials. Focus on what you can access, and keep building those community connections.

You don’t have to face this alone. Support is out there—sometimes in unexpected places—and we’re here to help you find it.