2025 Government Shutdown Impact Report
When the government shut down and uncertainty arose for our neighbors, Marylanders came to the table.
When the government shut down and uncertainty arose for our neighbors, Marylanders came to the table.
Signs of Growing Need
In October and November 2025, the Maryland Food Bank (MFB) experienced a significant increase in demand for food assistance as a result of hundreds of thousands of Marylanders experiencing furloughs and threats to SNAP. Online searches and phone calls seeking food resources surged, while partner organizations across the state reported serving more neighbors than usual. Many shared that they were seeing first time visitors and experiencing a greater sense of urgency in requests for assistance.
Marylanders impacted
%
Increase in visits to our Find Food search tool*
%
MFB Partners who reported an increase in site visits
How We Responded
Thanks to an outpouring of support from individuals, organizations, and local government agencies, the Maryland Food Bank was able to rise to the challenge. We significantly increased the food & funds we deployed throughout the state, strategically and thoughtfully.
2,416,024
More pounds of food distributed compared to the same period last year
53,293
Meals distributed through Mobile Markets in 25 zip codes identified as highly impacted by the shutdown
$2M
in State funding directly distributed to 116 partners in every county we serve
“Our partners are deeply embedded in their communities and know their needs best. Distributing $2,000,000 in grant funds directly allowed our partners to immediately purchase the additional food neighbors needed in that very moment.”
FIRANZA L.
Partner Pantry Volunteer
“I felt fortunate to be able to talk to her during a very emotional time and let her know she wasn’t alone. She told me they were in a spot that they never could imagine themselves in, especially at the holidays, and would ‘give back’ as soon as they were able to.”
TANIA B.
Neighbor, Frontline Pantry
“It’s mainly the food stamp situation that brought me here today, when they stop, so does my food. I had to humble myself to come out, but they’ve been really kind to me here. And this pantry is the reason why I’ll be able to have a Thanksgiving, and I’m very grateful for the people who work here.”
*All percentage increases shown compare activity from October 21–November 30, 2025 to the same period in the prior year.
Looking for more ways to get support your neighbors?
Learn more about our advocacy program and how you can use your voice in the fight against food insecurity.
Looking for more ways to get support your neighbors?
Learn more about our advocacy program and how you can use your voice in the fight against food insecurity.
