The clock is ticking for four major social safety net programs that keep tens of millions of struggling Americans — including millions of children and senior citizens — fed and warm, as well as provide early education services.
The government shutdown, which began October 1, has put in jeopardy these federal lifelines as their available funding dries up.
Still, the gravity of the situation has yet to push Democrats and Republicans on Capitol Hill closer to an agreement on a government spending package for fiscal year 2026 that would end the shutdown. The two sides continue to throw barbs at one another, while a growing number of their constituents panic over losing their much-needed federal assistance.
Here’s where things stand:
Food stamps
The US Department of Agriculture says it does not have the money to provide food stamps to nearly 42 million Americans next month amid
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