“NTFB and its partners are working to make sure local pantries remain stocked and mobile food distributions continue throughout the shutdown.”

As the federal government shutdown stretches on, the North Texas Food Bank (NTFB) is bracing for an increasing demand for food assistance across the region. The Dallas-based nonprofit is working closely with more than 500 food pantries and community partners to ensure families have continued access to nutritious meals — even as federal workers miss paychecks and millions of Texans risk losing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, SNAP funding could run out if the shutdown extends beyond late October. In Texas, state officials have warned that benefits could end as early as November, potentially affecting 3.5 million residents, nearly half of them children, according to a NTFB press release.

Within the North Texas Food Bank’s 12-county service area, about 460,000 people could be impacted.

“The North Texas Food Bank is deeply concerned about the impact an extended government shutdown could have on families across our community,” said Sarah Burns, NTFB’s vice president of external affairs. “A prolonged shutdown could force hundreds of thousands of neighbors to make difficult choices between paying rent, keeping the lights on, and putting food on the table. We want everyone to know that we are here to help.”

Expanding Access During the Shutdown

NTFB and its partners are working to keep food pantries stocked and mobile food distributions running throughout the shutdown. Anyone in need can find nearby resources at ntfb.org/get-help

To serve federal employees and families near DFW and Love Field airports, NTFB has teamed up with Dallas College to offer walk-in food assistance on Fridays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at:

Dallas College Brookhaven Campus – 3939 Valley View Lane, Farmers Branch
Dallas College West Dallas Center – 3330 N. Hampton Road, Dallas
Dallas College North Lake Campus – 5001 N. MacArthur Blvd., Irving

Additionally, Dallas College will host a mobile food distribution at its Richland Campus (12800 Abrams Road, Dallas) on Wednesday, Oct. 29, from 10 a.m. to noon.

Catholic Charities Dallas continues to operate one of the largest mobile outreach programs in North Texas, with 115 sites across nine counties distributing food six days a week. A full schedule is available at ccdallas.org/mobile

All distributions are drive-through only and operate on a first-come, first-served basis. While no ID is required, participants should be prepared to provide their name, household size, and zip code.

“Hunger is already high across Texas, and a prolonged shutdown will only increase uncertainty for families,” Burns added. “Even in challenging times, our community can count on the North Texas Food Bank to continue serving our neighbors.”

Support for Seniors and SNAP Recipients

NTFB’s Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP), also known as PAN (People and Nutrition), provides monthly food boxes to eligible seniors aged 60 and older—each containing about 35 pounds of USDA-provided nonperishable food. The program operates in 12 counties including Dallas, Collin, Ellis, Hunt, and Kaufman. More information is available at ntfb.org/our-programs/senior-programs

NTFB also helps families apply for and maintain SNAP benefits, providing guidance throughout the shutdown. Residents can learn more or get assistance at ntfb.org/snap-information