Where Families With Young Children Can Find Food Help During the Federal Shutdown
- hayley521
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
When federal funding stops, families feel it first—especially those with infants and preschoolers. Right now, the shutdown has disrupted key nutrition lifelines that millions depend on. Some states are stepping in, and food banks are doing incredible work to fill the gaps. But these stopgap measures can’t replace the steady, reliable programs that keep children healthy.
What’s Happening with SNAP and WIC
SNAP (food stamps): Courts and state agencies have scrambled to keep some benefits flowing, but guidance suggests that November benefits could be delayed or only partially funded in many areas. Some states are temporarily using their own dollars to fill the gaps, but families should be prepared for possible delays and stay alert for state-level updates.
WIC (for pregnant and postpartum people, infants, and children under 5): The administration has issued short-term funding to keep WIC running—enough for weeks, not months. Families may experience continuity for now but should be aware of the uncertainty if the shutdown continues.
School and child care meals (NSLP, SBP, CACFP): These programs are continuing for now thanks to separate funding streams and carryover mechanisms. Schools and child care providers should continue serving meals and stay in touch with their state agencies for updates.
Why It Matters for Early Childhood Programs
Consistent access to nutritious food fuels brain development, emotional regulation, and early learning. Even brief disruptions can heighten stress for families and contribute to poorer health and developmental outcomes—especially in the first five years of life.
Food banks and community partners are doing heroic work, and we thank them deeply. But they can’t replace comprehensive federal nutrition programs that serve tens of millions every month. Feeding America’s network is already preparing for surges in demand as SNAP and WIC funding wavers.
Action Steps for Early Childhood Leaders
Here’s what programs can do right now:
1. Share “Find Food Now” Tools WidelyProvide these resources in multiple formats—flyers, texts, parent apps, and websites.
WhyHunger Find Food & Hotline – Call 1-800-5-HUNGRY (1-800-548-6479), text your ZIP code to the same number, or visit whyhunger.org/find-food.
Feeding America Food Bank Locator – Enter your ZIP code to find nearby food banks and partner pantries.
findhelp.org – Type in a ZIP code to search free or low-cost local resources (food, diapers, housing, utilities).
2-1-1 – Call for local help with food, shelter, and utilities. In many areas, staff can guide families through nearby pantries or applications.
2. Clarify What’s Still Running
School and CACFP meals continue for now. Encourage families whose income has dropped to apply for or reverify meal benefits.
WIC is operational but vulnerable. Families should keep appointments, check eWIC balances, and save receipts. If benefits lapse, contact your state or local WIC agency about contingency options.
3. Build a Quick-Response Food Plan
Stock an emergency pantry with infant formula (matching eWIC brands/sizes), shelf-stable milk, pouches, and whole-grain snacks.
Create a one-page “Food Help Now” handout in multiple languages with the four tools above plus your nearest food bank’s hours.
Set up a discreet way for families to request help like by scanning a QR code and coordinate with local food banks for weekly pickups that include diapers and wipes when possible.
Train staff to recognize food stress and respond compassionately.
A Grateful Shout-Out (and a Reality Check)
Food banks, pantries, school nutrition teams, and community partners are doing extraordinary work. They’re bridging urgent gaps and feeding families who might otherwise go without. But these groups were never meant to replace programs like SNAP or WIC. Sustainable federal funding and predictable benefits are what keep children nourished month after month.
Talking Points for Staff and Families
“School and CACFP meals are continuing for now. Keep participating and apply for benefits if your income has changed.”
“WIC has temporary funding—please keep your appointments and check for updates from your local WIC clinic.”
“If your SNAP benefits are delayed or reduced, these tools—WhyHunger, Feeding America, findhelp.org, and 2-1-1—can help you find food today.”
“Food insecurity affects early learning and behavior. Asking for help early protects your child’s development.”
For Program Administrators
Track your state’s SNAP updates—some are temporarily filling federal gaps.
Watch USDA/FNS and state memos for any changes to school or CACFP reimbursements.
Document any extra costs (like pantry supplies) tied to the shutdown for possible future reimbursement or grants.
Free Resources to Share
findhelp.org – Local food, diaper, housing, and utility support
USDA WIC & Program Data Hub – Links to state programs and data
Preparedness Is About More Than Emergencies
Preparedness isn’t just for storms or lockdowns. A federal shutdown is another kind of disruption—one that can shake a family’s stability. Building a nutrition continuity plan, complete with clear resources, communication templates, and an on-site pantry, helps families weather uncertainty with less fear.
That’s “Don’t be scared, be prepared” in action.
Stay prepared, stay connected.
The Institute for Childhood Preparedness Team
