Help for SNAP Recipients and Federal Workers Impacted by Shutdown in Philadelphia Region

Thousands of SNAP recipients and federal government workers in Philadelphia, New Jersey, and Delaware are grappling with the impacts of the ongoing federal shutdown. SNAP benefits have paused since November 1, leaving many struggling to secure food, while tens of thousands of federal employees face furloughs or unpaid work, creating economic hardship in the region.

Philadelphia has launched the One Philly SNAP Support Program, providing emergency food, rental assistance, and revenue replacement to those impacted by the SNAP stoppage and shutdown. The City’s Department of Public Health is distributing $2 million in grants to local organizations delivering healthy, culturally appropriate food to affected residents. Applications for Emergency Food Security Grants are open through November 5th.

For SNAP recipients seeking food resources, Philadelphia offers a Food and Meal Finder tool and the 311 hotline to locate nearby food pantries and meal sites. Legal assistance around SNAP eligibility during the shutdown is available from Community Legal Services.

South Jersey faces rising demand as about 130,000 residents may lose benefits. The Food Bank of South Jersey and the Community Food Bank of New Jersey provide mobile food pantries and programs for seniors and families.

Delaware’s Health and Social Services indicates roughly 60,000 households face food insecurity due to the shutdown. Residents can dial 211 or use Delaware’s interactive food pantry map maintained by the Food Bank of Delaware to find open pantries.

Federal workers in the tri-state area, including thousands in Philadelphia County, experience furloughs or unpaid work, especially in departments like Veterans Affairs and Homeland Security. The city has allocated emergency rental assistance and grants supporting furloughed federal employees and small businesses.

Local restaurants and grocery services have stepped up to offer free or discounted meals for SNAP recipients during the benefit pause, easing immediate food insecurity. At phillymag.com you can find a list of local restaurants offering free food.

To stay informed and connected, SNAP recipients should update contact info with state agencies and review new work requirements affecting eligibility. Pennsylvania’s official SNAP page provides ongoing updates: pa.gov SNAP resources.

During this critical moment, accessing these programs and resources is essential for families and workers in Philadelphia, New Jersey, and Delaware affected by the government shutdown.