The federal government shutdown has continued into late October 2025. Kansas City is taking steps to support residents affected by the suspension of new Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) funding. Starting November 1, some households may see delays or pauses in their SNAP benefits due to a funding freeze by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The city is working with regional organizations to help residents access food, childcare, housing, and emotional support during this period.
Residents with remaining SNAP benefits from October or earlier can still use their EBT cards until those funds run out. For immediate help, individuals can call 3-1-1 or United Way’s 2-1-1 hotline for referrals to local food and financial support services. Several community organizations, such as the Community Action Agency of Greater Kansas City, Feeding Missouri, Harvesters, and the Kansas City Health Department, are providing free groceries, meals, and pantry items. Proof of income or SNAP eligibility is not required to receive food assistance.
Some local restaurants and businesses are offering free meals for families and children. Ate1Six Food Truck and Lilly’s Cantina are providing free meals for kids while SNAP benefits are paused. PeachTree Cafeteria and Thelma’s Kitchen are offering free hot meals at various locations. Delivery services like DoorDash and GoPuff are waiving fees or offering credits for EBT users. Too Good To Go is offering discounted meals from local establishments…