Dear grantees and community partners,
This morning, Governor Moore held a press conference in which he declared a state of emergency to address the economic impacts of the federal government shutdown. As part of the state’s response to a lapse in SNAP benefits funding at the federal level, the Governor is releasing $10 million in emergency funding to food banks to provide additional support for families.
This press release provides additional details on the status of SNAP benefits and the alternative assistance available. Funding will be used to purchase and distribute additional food for food banks, local pantries, school pantries, and mobile distribution programs, including delivery of meals to older adults or Marylanders with disabilities who cannot easily access pantries.
Marylanders in need of food assistance should visit the 211 Maryland website to locate the nearest food pantry or food bank.
If you receive HUD Continuum of Care Program funding or have an award from DHCD under the Homelessness Solutions Program or Community Services Block Grant program, please note that food for clients is an eligible program cost. Grantees are encouraged to request a budget modification if necessary to provide additional support to program participants
Also attached is a fact sheet for resources for federal workers who have been impacted by furloughs – including legal protections against evictions, foreclosure, and utility shutoffs.
We will continue to keep partners updated as the situation evolves. Thank you for your partnership and service.
Danielle Meister
she/her
Assistant Secretary
Division of Homeless Solutions
Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development
2 N. Charles Street, 4th Floor
Baltimore, MD 21201
danielle.meister@maryland.gov
(443) 651-0241
