Answers to Common Questions about Food Assistance and Other Benefits

A federal government shutdown began on October 1, 2025. A government shutdown impacts federal programs, federal employees and people who work for federal contractors in different ways and at varying times. Federal employees may be furloughed or asked to work without pay, federal contractors may miss paychecks, and benefits programs may see disruptions due to a lack of funding or staffing.

We have compiled some information and resources that may be helpful during a shutdown. As always, we encourage those in need of food to please visit the Fredericksburg Regional Food Bank’s Pantry Finder map to locate a food pantry in your area.

Fredericksburg Regional Food Bank Assistance for Federal Employees and Contractors

• Federal employees and people who work for federal contractors may receive charitable assistance from nonprofits for needs that arise during the shutdown and beyond. Although there are rules that prohibit federal employees from accepting gifts from the public while completing official duties related to their federal employment, federal employees and people who work for federal contractors are allowed to receive charitable assistance from nonprofits and other organizations that aid community members.
• Federal employees will eventually receive back pay after a shutdown ends, but people who work for federal contractors may not.
• Our network of community partner organizations will be able to provide nutritious food at no cost to federal employees, people who work for federal contractors, and other individuals impacted by the shutdown.
• Some federal employees and people who work for federal contractors can receive SNAP benefits if they meet all eligibility criteria. If you need assistance applying for benefits, contact our SNAP Outreach & Referral Coordinator at (540) 371-7666 x 146 or gethelp@fredfood.org

State Assistance for Federal Employees and Contractors

• Resources for Impacted Federal Workers: This site includes details about how to apply for unemployment insurance benefits, conduct a job search, address health care coverage needs, and find opportunities for training and education.
• Resources for Virginia’s Former Federal Employees and Other Workers Impacted by the Federal Government Transition
• Virginia Workforce Connection: This site provides information about available jobs, job search resources, training opportunities and resources for veterans.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

• A government shutdown beginning on October 1 will not impact October SNAP benefits. October SNAP benefits will be available in full and on their regular monthly issuance schedule.
• If the government is shut down, you can still apply for SNAP. We do not expect changes to the application process through October.
• If you need assistance applying for benefits, contact our SNAP Outreach & Referral Coordinator at (540) 371-7666 x 146 or gethelp@fredfood.org. Our knowledgeable application assistant will review your eligibility and assist you in completing the application process.

Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)

• WIC benefits and services should be available in full and on time through October.
• Contact your local WIC office for more information on how benefits will be impacted.

Additional Information

• The Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP), or senior food box program, should not see any disruption for existing distributions through October.
• Children will still be able to receive school meals. Child nutrition programs are expected to operate as normal through at least October. This includes school breakfast and lunch, and afterschool meals through the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP).