What to Do If You Don’t Have SNAP Due to the Federal Government Shutdown in Massachusetts
Over the past few days, many families in Massachusetts have received news about possible interruptions in their SNAP benefits.
This is due to the temporary federal government shutdown.
SNAP is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, which helps over a million state residents.
These include families with children, seniors, and adults with disabilities, making it essential support to ensure access to stable, healthy food.
Although the situation causes concern, various local communities and organizations are already mobilizing to offer alternatives and support the affected families.
Rising Hunger: A Silent Crisis
One in three families in the state experienced food insecurity last year.
- 2019: 19% of households reported difficulty accessing food.
- 2024: That figure rose to 37%, the highest level in a decade.
This is according to the “Cost of Hunger in Massachusetts 2025” report by the Greater Boston Food Bank.
The crisis not only reflects an economic problem but also gaps in information and access, which affect immigrant and Hispanic families most intensely.
Local Initiatives and Solidarity in Action
In cities like Methuen, municipal authorities began a food drive campaign and are planning free distributions.
These events will take place starting November 1st from the Methuen Senior Center.
Such initiatives reflect the commitment of local leaders and volunteers who work daily to ensure no one is left without support.
Where to Find Food Assistance in Massachusetts
Several organizations are reinforcing their response capacity to support families in need. Instead of being alarmed, it is time to get informed and rely on the available resources:
1. Massachusetts Government Assistance
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey launched a new SNAP resource hub at Mass.gov/SNAPFreeze that includes information on how hungry families can get help.
It also indicates how individuals and businesses can offer aid, and a new digital map showing how many people depend on SNAP to feed their families in every city and town in Massachusetts.
2. Food Pantries and Community Banks
Food pantries are places where families can receive basic food at no cost. Options available in Massachusetts include:
- Greater Boston Food Bank – Distributes food to hundreds of local pantries.
- Roslindale Food Collective – Offers fresh food, community pantries, and 24/7 open refrigerators.
- Catholic Charities Food Pantries – Food assistance in Boston and neighboring cities.
If you need immediate help, you can find the nearest pantry at Mass.gov/find-food.
3. Mobile Markets and Access to Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
For those looking for healthy, low-cost options, several programs offer fruits and vegetables directly in neighborhoods:
- Fresh Truck (About Fresh) – Trucks that bring fresh produce at affordable prices.
- YMCA Mobile Market – Mobile markets with fresh, local foods.
4. Programs for Seniors and Families
Several services offer ready-made or home-delivered nutritious meals for seniors or those with reduced mobility:
- Ethos Meals on Wheels – Food delivery to older adults in the Boston area.
- Project Bread – FoodSource Hotline
- 1-800-645-8333 (Toll-free line with service in Spanish)
- Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. — 7 p.m. | Saturdays, 10 a.m. — 2 p.m.
5. Donations and Solidarity in Methuen
While SNAP benefits remain on hold, the city of Methuen launched a campaign to collect food and basic necessities.
This food will go to its more than 10,000 residents who depend on the program.
Donation points will be open at eight locations, including Methuen City Hall, the Senior Activity Center, and all fire and police stations.
Deliveries for residents will begin on November 1st and 5th at the Senior Center (77 Lowell St.).
Donors can contribute non-perishable food and paper goods (monetary donations are not accepted).
The effort is coordinated by the Methuen Department of Health and Human Services, with support from the police, fire department, and local volunteers.
At My Health Fair, we believe that the power of the community can make a difference in times of uncertainty.
Donating, sharing verified information, and supporting local programs are concrete actions that strengthen collective well-being.
While the federal situation is resolved, local aid networks—from food pantries to donation drives—continue to be a pillar of support for thousands of families.
Together, we can continue building a more supportive, informed, and healthy Massachusetts.
