Important Update: Support for Food and Basic Needs During the Government Shutdown 

The ongoing federal government shutdown has temporarily paused SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits, creating uncertainty for many families who rely on this essential support to put food on the table. To check the status of your SNAP benefits, please visit Your Texas Benefits. 

At CommUnityCare Health Centers, we recognize how deeply this disruption can impact our patients, team members, and the Central Texas community and are closely monitoring the evolving situation.  

Medicaid, CHIP, TANF, and WIC are not currently affected by the Federal Government Shutdown. For updates on how the federal shutdown is impacting your benefits, please visit the Texas Health and Human Services website. 

To help those affected, CommUnityCare Health Centers and Central Health gathered a list of community resources available across the region. These organizations provide immediate assistance for food, clothing, and other essential needs.

 

Food and Pantry Resources 

If you or someone you know is affected by the SNAP suspension or needs access to nutritious food, several community programs are stepping up to help: 

Other Basic Needs and Assistance 

Beyond food assistance, several local organizations are available to help with other unexpected hardships during this challenging time. 

  • Social Resource Center (UT School of Nursing): Offers a free food pantry, clothing closet, and an office center (with internet/fax access). Located at 5301 Ross Road, Bldg. J, Del Valle. Call 512-386-3309 for more information. 
  • St. Austin Catholic Parish – Outreach Program: Can assist a few people each week with a little bit of rent, City of Austin Utilities, or Texas Gas bills via a weekly random lottery drawing. Eligibility is restricted to certain zip codes (e.g., 78702, 78723, 78724, 78741, 78744, 78745, 78753, or 78758). 
  • Operation Clean Clothes (Mission Accomplished): Provides a mobile laundry service for those experiencing homelessness. Call 512-588-3321 for more info. 

 How to Find More Help 

A comprehensive directory of free or reduced-cost resources for food, housing, financial assistance, and health care is available online: 

For Healthcare

CommUnityCare Health Centers provides comprehensive primary and preventive care services regardless of your ability to pay. CommUnityCare Health Centers accepts patients with Medicaid, Medicare, MAP, most insurance plans, and offers a sliding fee discount program based on household income. Set up an appointment with a financial eligibility specialist today, CLICK HERE. 

CommUnityCare Health Centers stands with every member of our community during this uncertain time. We are continuing to monitor the government shutdown and its impact on essential programs like SNAP. We remain committed to sharing reliable updates and connecting our patients, staff, and neighbors with the support they need.