Standing Together Through the Federal Government Shutdown

Update November 13, 2025
On the evening of November 12, Congress passed legislation that ended the government shutdown and restored funding for the federal government. This package ensures that several food assistance programs, including SNAP, WIC, The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) and meal programs for kids are fully funded through September 2026.
Even though the shutdown has ended, we know many questions remain about its ripple effects. Know that the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank and its partner network are always here to help our neighbors through difficult times. We serve without judgement and are thankful to have donors who help us achieve our goal of making sure everyone has enough to eat.  

With the federal government now shut down, the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank and our network of more than 400 community partners are preparing for an increase in need across our region. More than 30,000 federal employees live and work in the area—and as paychecks are delayed or halted, many individuals and families may find themselves needing food assistance for the first time. 

We want our entire community—our guests, partners, and donors—to know what this means and how we can respond together.

"foodfinder.brafb.org" VA state graphic with three location markers

How to get help

If you’ve been affected by the shutdown—whether you’re a federal employee, contractor, active-duty service member, or anyone experiencing financial hardship—you are not alone. We’re here to help. 

The Food Bank and its partner network remain fully operational, and food assistance is available throughout our service area.  

  • Our Food Finder tool has a comprehensive list of all our partners within our service area. 

With the federal shutdown still in effect, many people have questions about federal nutrition programs. Here is the latest information you should know:

  • SNAP: The Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) initially announced a temporary program, Virginia Emergency Nutrition Assistance (VENA) to disperse SNAP funds. The last issuance of funds through the VENA program is expected to take place on Friday, November 7.
    • Starting November 11 or 12 full benefits should be loaded to SNAP EBT cards, according to a statement by VDSS, released on November 7:
      “Full SNAP benefits will be loaded to EBT cards either Tuesday or Wednesday next week. VENA will cease operation after today’s issuance. The exact date is pending the systems teams making the changes for full issuance which is expected to take 4-5 days.”
  • WIC should continue to be funded by USDA for the foreseeable future. Your local WIC office can provide more information on how this benefit may be impacted during a government shutdown.  
  • Meal programs for children are expected to operate as normal through at least October. This includes school breakfast, lunch and after-school meals offered through the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP). 
  • The Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP or Senior Food Box program) is expected to continue through January of next year.

This situation continues to change quickly, and we’ll continue to monitor the situation closely and share updates here as they become available. 

How to give help

A shutdown adds new challenges at a time when many neighbors are already struggling with the high cost of living. The Food Bank is committed to supporting our network to meet rising demand. 

As families and individuals face missed paychecks, our collective role becomes even more vital. Together, we can ensure that everyone who seeks assistance receives the help they need with dignity and care. 

Three ways you can help right now: 

  • Give now: Your donation will provide nutritious meals and hope for our neighbors during this uncertain time. 
  • Advocate: Contact your elected officials and urge them to protect critical nutrition programs that millions of Americans rely on. 
  • Volunteer: When you volunteer with the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank, you help make sure people who need food get it.  With increased demand expected, you could also volunteer with a partner food pantry near you. 

We cannot do this work without you. Your generosity ensures that children, families, and seniors in our region have enough to eat, no matter what happens in Washington. 

Our commitment

Our purpose remains clear: to ensure everyone has enough to eat.

The Blue Ridge Area Food Bank will continue to show up for our community—today, tomorrow, and for as long as it takes. With our neighbors and partners, we will keep the faith, no matter what comes.