Beyond the Shutdown: WNC United in Care

For six intense weeks starting October 1st, the federal shutdown interrupted paychecks for thousands of federal workers in our region and delayed SNAP benefits for tens of thousands more neighbors. But in that moment of fear and uncertainty, something extraordinary happened: Western North Carolina showed up.

Across WNC, partner pantries expanded their hours, neighbors and local businesses organized food drives, and supporters gave with generosity that reminded us—once again—how powerful this community is. The outpouring of care echoed what we saw after Hurricane Helene: a community which refuses to let their neighbors face crisis alone.

As a result of this support, MANNA was able to respond immediately. We expanded our food purchasing budget by 200% to meet the surge, offered $250,000 in food purchasing grants to our partners, held a pop-up market for federal employees, and so much more, to ensure that no one in WNC goes hungry.

We are relieved and overjoyed that the shutdown is over, that our dedicated public servants are being paid, and that SNAP benefits have returned to EBT cards. However, this fight is not over.

Federal budget cuts to SNAP and healthcare, approved earlier this year, will take effect in 2026, significantly reducing the resources families rely on to stay fed. In October, families and individuals made 215,000 visits to MANNA’s food partner network, the highest monthly total in our 42-year history. This record demand foreshadows what lies ahead. When the cuts begin, even more families will be forced to make impossible choices: the roof over their head or the food in their fridge, their lifesaving medication or filling their children’s plates.

From this moment, we are already learning how MANNA must continue to prepare, plan, and strengthen our systems to meet the growing need. And while MANNA will always do everything in our power to support our neighbors, no food bank can replace federal nutrition programs. Without these essential lifelines, the strain on our region will deepen.

But the last few weeks have shown us what happens when WNC comes together. Families are fed, hope spreads faster than hardship, and neighbors remind one another that this community is stronger than the challenges ahead.

MANNA’s 2025 Virtual Food Drive is raising money for the long road ahead—and we’ve already raised more than $140,000 of our $200,000 goal! Scroll down to learn more or contribute to this cause.

We are overwhelmed with gratitude for everyone who made this shutdown sprint possible—and for everyone who will walk beside us in the marathon to come. Together, we can make sure every neighbor has the food they need today, tomorrow, and for a lifetime.

With deep gratitude,

MANNA FoodBank