Maryland Responds to Federal Government Shutdown — $10 Million in Emergency Funding to Support Families
Image credit: Bryan P. Sears / Maryland Matters
Source: Maryland Matters
Governor Wes Moore Declares State of Emergency & Announces $10 Million in Emergency Funding to Fight Food Insecurity
Governor Wes Moore has declared a State of Emergency in Maryland to address the economic impact of the federal government shutdown, especially the looming suspension of November benefits under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The delay or stoppage in federal funding poses a risk to more than 680,000 Marylanders, including 270,000 children, 120,000 older adults, and 130,000 individuals with disabilities.
(Source: Governor’s press release)
To mitigate this crisis, the state is releasing $10 million in emergency grants via the state’s Fiscal Responsibility Fund. These funds will support food banks, local pantries, mobile distribution efforts, and other partners that serve vulnerable populations.
(Source: See Maryland press release)
Governor Moore stated:
“Withholding funding from food assistance is not just illegal, it’s cruel… In Maryland, we protect our people.”
He emphasized the importance of swiftly and equitably distributing the funds and working with legislative partners to do the most with available resources.
(Source: press release)
🧭 Resources for Maryland Residents Facing Food Insecurity
If you or someone you know is impacted by the shutdown, there are several statewide resources available:
Apply or manage benefits at MarylandBenefits.gov
Locate nearby food pantries via 211 Maryland
Explore job centers, unemployment resources, and veteran assistance through Maryland’s American Job Centers
(Source: Governor’s Press Release)
🍞 Additional Resource — TEFAP: A Supplemental Safety Net
In addition to the state’s emergency funding, Maryland residents should be aware of the Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP), a federal-state program that helps supplement the diets of individuals and families with low income by providing emergency food at no Food and Nutrition Service+2Maryland
In Maryland, the program is administered by the Maryland Department of Human Services in partnership with organizations such as the Maryland Food Bank and the Capital Area Food Bank. Maryland Department of Human Services+1
How to apply / access TEFAP in Maryland:
Visit the Maryland Food Bank’s “Find Food” tool (for most counties) or the Capital Area Food Bank’s “Get Help” tool (for Montgomery or Prince George’s Counties) and enter your ZIP code to locate nearby participating food pantries and distribution sites. Maryland Department of Human Services+1
Contact the Maryland DHS Office of Community Grants for additional information on TEFAP food distribution. Maryland Department of Human Services
Keep in mind: TEFAP is not means-tested the same as SNAP in some cases — eligibility may be different, so check with the local pantry or site.
While the federal shutdown is affecting SNAP benefits, TEFAP may provide a complementary form of assistance(food rather than funds) and thus is an important option for those facing disruptions.
🗺️Did You Know?
Maryland Notaries in Action maintains a link to every county’s official government webpage. You can explore your county’s site for updates on local assistance programs, emergency announcements, and public resources. Visit: Maryland Local Government | County Calendars & Civic Engagement Resources
🌟 Final Thoughts — Standing Together Through Uncertain Times
The federal shutdown has left many families uncertain about how they’ll meet basic needs in the weeks ahead. Maryland’s swift action to declare a State of Emergency and allocate emergency food funding reflects a strong commitment to protect residents who are most at risk.
Programs like SNAP and TEFAP serve as lifelines for thousands of Marylanders — and this emergency measure ensures those lifelines remain intact, even amid federal delays.
At Maryland Notaries in Action, we recognize that notaries are more than just public officials. We are neighbors, advocates, and everyday community members who care deeply about the well-being of those we serve. If you or someone you know is affected by the shutdown, please share these resources and explore the programs available in your county.
Together, we can help ensure that no one in Maryland faces hunger alone.
🫶Community Resources: 211 Maryland | MarylandBenefits.gov | DHS TEFAP Information
