Government Shutdown Response Update- 10.30.25

As the federal government shutdown continues, thousands of families across West Texas are facing growing uncertainty about how they will afford food and basic necessities.

The West Texas Food Bank is seeing an immediate increase in demand across our 19-county service area as both federal employees and SNAP participants experience interruptions in income and benefits.

Who Is Affected

  • 4,808 federal employees and their families in West Texas are currently without paychecks.

  • About 51,000 participants who depend on SNAP benefits will not receive them on November 1.

  • Half of those affected are children and seniors — our most vulnerable neighbors.

This marks the first time in the history of SNAP that benefits have been halted due to a government shutdown.

How the West Texas Food Bank Is Responding

The West Texas Food Bank has activated its Government Shutdown Response Plan to ensure families across our 19 counties have access to food during this critical time. Our response includes:

  • Hosting private food outreaches for impacted federal employees and their families.

  • Increasing Support for our partner agencies experiencing a rise in pantry traffic.

  • Ordering additional truckloads of food to replenish inventory and sustain operations.

  • Coordinating with local, state, and federal partners to ensure food reaches those who need it most.

Despite these efforts, our resources are being stretched to the limit. We estimate that it will take $1.5 million to fully replenish our inventory and continue meeting the surge in demand.

If You Need Food

If you or someone you know has been affected by the shutdown and needs food assistance:
👉 Visit our How to Get Help page to locate the nearest pantry, distribution, or partner agency.
👉 Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for real-time updates on special distributions and outreach events.

All are welcome — no one should go hungry in West Texas.

How You Can Help

This is an urgent call for community support.

  • Donate: Every dollar provides up to four meals for West Texans in need. Give Now →

  • Volunteer: Extra hands are needed to sort, pack, and distribute food. Sign Up →

  • Spread the Word: Share this page to connect neighbors to help and inspire others to give.

Together, we can make sure no West Texan goes hungry during this crisis. 💚

Government Shutdown Update- 10.24.25

The West Texas Food Bank is closely monitoring the ongoing federal government shutdown and its impact across our 19-county service area.

If the shutdown continues past October 27, SNAP benefits for November will not be issued until the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) receives new federal guidance. We understand this uncertainty is creating hardship for many families, federal employees, and members of the armed forces — and we are here to help.

Food banks across Texas, including the West Texas Food Bank, are stepping up to meet increased demand as paychecks and benefits are delayed. Within our service area, 4,808 federal employees and service members may be directly affected. (This number does not include SNAP benefit participants)

We remain committed to ensuring that no West Texan goes hungry during this time. Please continue to check this page for updates on SNAP benefits and resources available in your community.

If you are in need of assistance, visit our How Get Help page to locate the nearest distribution.
If you would like to help, visit our Volunteer or Donate pages to make an impact today.

Together, we will get through this — as one West Texas community.