Shutdown Resources

Countless Massachusetts residents are affected by the Government Shutdown. From government workers – such as TSA and Coast Guard – to those receiving existing federal benefits, it is difficult to know where to turn for assistance. We’ve compiled helpful resources below to assist you in finding the answers you need.

Federal Food Assistance

SNAP/Food Stamps: The MA Department of Transitional Assistance assists low-income individuals and families, including veterans. DTA serves one in eight residents of the Commonwealth with direct economic assistance (cash benefits) and food assistance (SNAP benefits), as well as workforce training opportunities.

• For GBFB SNAP application assistance, please email SNAP@gbfb.org or call 617-598-5022.

WIC/Women, Infants & Children: this program keeps pregnant and breastfeeding women and kids under 5 healthy. Important information:

• Massachusetts WIC is open for all eligible families to receive program benefits and services.
• WIC food/formula benefits should continue to be redeemed at all authorized retailers.
• WIC participants should keep their appointments to continue their participation in the program.

Statewide Emergency Food Assistance

Project Bread’s Food Source Hotline: 800-645-8333 or gettingsnap.org

HelpSteps.com or download the HelpSteps app: HelpSteps is a free and easy online/digital resource to access information on over 11,000 social services across the Commonwealth.

GBFB Food Assistance Locator: find food pantries, mobile markets and other food assistance programs in Eastern Massachusetts.

Food Bank of Western Massachusetts: food assistance for Berkshire, Franklin, Hampden and Hampshire counties.

Merrimack Valley Food Bank: provides nutritious food and personal care items to emergency feeding programs serving the low-income, homeless and hungry.

Worcester County Food Bank: food assistance for Worcester County.