The federal government shut down has left about 42 million people nationwide in fear of losing their SNAP benefits.
Photo by Morgan Wujkowski
The federal government shutdown has now exceeded one month. More than 42 million Americans who rely on SNAP (food stamps) face food uncertainty.
Two federal judges ordered the USDA to continue some SNAP payments by Nov. 7, but many families are still experiencing delays, partial deposits, or skipped deposit dates.
Shutdown Food Assistance Helpline
If your benefits are late or you are running out of food: Help is available immediately in Tampa Bay.
Feeding Tampa Bay Emergency Line: 813-710-9003
Call to get real-time information on the nearest open pantry or emergency meal site.
Jordan Park Community Food Pantry (St. Petersburg)
1245 Jordan Park St. S., St. Petersburg
Thursdays, 3-5 p.m.
Exclusively for Jordan Park residents.
Good Neighbors Grocery Giveaway (South St. Pete)
3001 18th Ave. S., St. Petersburg
Mondays, 4-6 p.m.
Free groceries while supplies last.
Mount Olive Food Pantry (South St. Pete)
3001 18th Ave. S., St. Petersburg
Mondays, 4-6 p.m.
Groceries and household essentials.
St. Pete Free Clinic / We Help Fresh Groceries (St. Pete)
863 3rd Ave. N., St. Petersburg
Monday–Thursday, 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
Bring ID and proof of Pinellas residency.
Feeding Pinellas Market — Free Grocery Store (St. Pete)
6330 54th Ave. N., St. Petersburg
By appointment — shop like a grocery store for free.
Appointment link
Trinity Cafe @ Feeding Pinellas (St. Pete)
6330 54th Ave. N., St. Petersburg
Monday–Friday, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Restaurant-style plated meals, free.
Destiny Christian Ministries Distribution (South St. Pete)
1210 Union St. S., St. Petersburg
Tuesdays, 4-6 p.m.
Pinellas Park UMC Pantry (Pinellas Park)
9025 49th St. N., Pinellas Park
Call ahead for pantry hours.
Free Shutdown Meals — Pia’s Trattoria (Gulfport)
3054 Beach Blvd S., Gulfport
Wednesday–Sunday, 5-6 p.m.
Ask for the “Shutdown To-Go Special.”
Free meal — no questions asked.
SNAP Users: Get Free Delivery + Grocery Discounts
SNAP Users get $50 in free groceries and free delivery when they add a SNAP EBT card.
GoPuff (SNAP accepted)
• Nov 1–15: Code SNAPRELIEF1 = $25 off + free delivery
• Nov 16–30: Code SNAPRELIEF2 = $25 off + free delivery
SNAP BENEFIT UPDATE
Benefits may be delayed, but are not canceled due to the shutdown. EBT balances are still available. But, deposits may post late or partially until federal funding stabilizes.
Track benefits or apply for emergency SNAP.
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