Texas food banks prepare for increased demand during government shutdown

TEXAS (KTAL/KMSS) — Texas food banks are accelerating emergency response efforts to support families as the government shutdown continues.

The state emergency food system is expected to face a surge in need as federal employees and members of the armed services experience income disruptions, and SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefit delays are set to begin on November 1.

Feeding Texas CEO, Celia Cole, said, “Food banks are seeing a wave of new faces and families who’ve never needed emergency food assistance before. We’re doing everything we can to meet the moment, but food banks were already seeing increased need due to rising food costs.”

“The shutdown adds another layer of strain to an already stretched emergency food system. Communities across Texas are feeling the pressure, and food banks need additional support to keep up with the growing demand.”

Eleven percent of Texans —more than 3.5 million people —participate in the SNAP program, including 170,000 in the 26 counties served by the East Texas Food Bank (ETFB).

David Emerson, East Texas Food Bank CEO, said, “Here in East Texas alone, more than 11,000 federal workers are missing paychecks and turning to ETFB and our pantry partners to help feed their families. We are preparing for a surge for food assistance due to SNAP benefits not being available.”

Feeding Texas is releasing data that shows SNAP participation by county to help Texans understand the local impact of delayed SNAP benefits. The data is based on the most recent figures from the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and includes breakdowns by age and benefit level.

The data shows that half of all SNAP participants are under 18, and almost 15 percent are age 60 and older.

Feeding Texas estimates that 126,000 Texans could be affected daily by delayed SNAP payments, resulting in a loss of $614 million in food benefits statewide if the shutdown lasts the entire month.

Cole said, “When you consider that the vast majority of SNAP recipients are children, seniors, and people with disabilities, the stakes become painfully clear. These are our neighbors, our grandparents, our kids. A delay in benefits isn’t just inconvenient—it’s devastating.”

“It means empty pantries, skipped meals, and added stress for families already living on the edge. Communities across Texas will feel the ripple effects, from our schools to our local economies. This is a moment that demands urgent action and compassion.”

Census data shows 333,992 federal employees and 117,567 armed service members who could be affected by the shutdown. Those numbers do not include family members or contract employees.

Cole explained, “This shutdown is a reminder of how close many families are to facing hunger. One missed paycheck can mean an empty fridge. Meanwhile, SNAP is a lifeline for millions of Texans, and that lifeline may be paused for the foreseeable future.”

“Food banks will be the first source of emergency food support for millions of Texans whose paychecks or federal benefits may not arrive as expected. This kind of disruption doesn’t just affect individuals — it reverberates through entire communities, straining local resources and deepening hardship for those already struggling to make ends meet.”

Many food banks are targeting distribution to areas with high concentrations of federal workers. Texans can find their nearest food bank with the Feeding Texas distribution tool.

Cole said, “As we respond to this crisis, both public and private support will be absolutely essential to ensure no Texan goes hungry. Food banks are calling on community members, businesses, and elected leaders to come together and help our neighbors weather these difficult times.”

“Support across sectors allows us to respond swiftly and compassionately, ensuring families have access to nutritious food when they need it most. As we enter the season of giving, it’s a powerful time for Texans to show up for one another.”

“Whether it’s a donation, a volunteer shift, or simply sharing resources, every action strengthens our collective response. Together, we can help Texans stay nourished and ensure those facing unexpected hardship have access to the resources they need to get through this crisis.”

Feeding Texas provides up-to-date information on how the government shutdown is affecting hunger, locates resources, and explores ways to support hunger relief efforts.