Resources and Support for Virginians Facing Food Insecurity

As of November 1, 2025, millions of Americans—including many older adults—may not receive their monthly food benefits through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. This disruption affects individuals living on fixed incomes, many of whom rely on SNAP to afford groceries and maintain their health.

You Are Not Alone

If you are facing food insecurity, know that help is available. Whether you need groceries, home-delivered meals, or someone to talk to, these resources are here to support you. You deserve dignity, nourishment, and peace of mind.

Check Your EBT Balance

Unused SNAP benefits from previous months may still be available. Benefits usually stay on your card for up to 12 months. Visit your state’s EBT portal or call the number on the back of your card to check your balance.

Many food banks and pantries offer services tailored to older individuals, including home delivery and dietary-sensitive options:

In Virginia:

· Virginia Emergency Nutrition Assistance (VENA) - The state of Virginia has announced it will create an emergency food assistance program to help residents who rely on federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Programs (SNAP) during the government shutdown. VENA benefits will be delivered to anyone who used SNAP in October through the same EBT cards they’re currently using. Learn More - https://www.dss.virginia.gov/snapfacts/

· Virginia Federation of Food Banks - https://vafoodbanks.org/find-food/

· Virginia’s 2-1-1 - https://211virginia.org/

Nationwide resources:

· Feeding America Food Bank Locator - https://www.feedingamerica.org/find-your-local-foodbank

· Hunger Free America - https://findfood.hungerfreeamerica.org

· Food Finder Interactive Map - https://foodfinder.us/

· WhyHunger Find Food Database - https://whyhunger.org/find-food

· Meals on Wheels America: Delivers nutritious meals directly to homes. Find a provider - https://www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org/

· Little Food Pantries - https://www.thelittlefreepantries.org/

· Local Area Agencies on Aging (AAA): These agencies often coordinate food delivery, congregate meals, and other support services. Find your local AAA - https://eldercare.acl.gov/home

National Hotlines for Immediate Help

· National Hunger Hotline: Call 1-866-3-HUNGRY or 1-877-8-HAMBRE (Spanish)

· WhyHunger Hotline: Call 1-800-5-HUNGRY or text your ZIP code to 1-800-548-6479

· Call 2-1-1 or visit 211.org to connect with local food programs.