The government shutdown is about to hit the 5 week mark and many El Paso families, and Families across America, are worrying about the possibility of losing food stamp benefits. On top of that, hundred of thousands of federal government workers have been going to work and have not gotten a paycheck in a month, and don’t know when their next paycheck will be.

Other impacts due to the government shutdown include several airports experiencing delays because of staffing shortages, and many food banks are seeing an influx in families reaching out to ask for food because they can not afford to buy their own.

El Paso businesses have noticed the struggle many families are dealing with and many of these businesses have stepped up to the plate to lend as much assistance as they can to those in need.

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Food City’s Community Support Gift Card Program Pauses After Massive Response

One local business that decided to help out was the local grocery store, Food City. After launching their Community Support Gift Card Program to help local families struggling with reduced SNAP benefits and unpaid federal employees, Food City saw an outpouring of love and generosity from both customers and neighbors. The initiative was inspired by one caring shopper who wanted to help, and it quickly turned into a powerful example of what happens when compassion meets community.

But the response was so overwhelming that Food City had temporarily paused new applications while they worked to gather more donations. That means they’ve reached their current capacity for distributing gift cards, but the mission isn’t stopping anytime soon.

“In times like these, we’re reminded just how strong our community is,” Food City shared in their heartfelt message. “We’re pausing applications to ensure that every family we serve gets meaningful support.”

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Here’s How You Can Still Help Food City provide for others

If you want to keep the kindness going, you can still donate in-store to help local families get the support they need. Every contribution helps bring back smiles and groceries to tables across El Paso.

Food City will announce when applications will reopen on their social media channels. 

“Thank you for your compassion, generosity, and community spirit. Together, we’re proving that in El Paso, nobody faces tough times alone.”

If there’s one thing El Paso never runs out of—it’s heart.

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