As furloughed federal workers and contractors wake up this morning facing uncertainty, Bread for the City is here—with our doors open to all individuals and families affected by the shutdown. 

“Government shutdowns rarely impact those who cause them. Instead, they bring stress to people with no control over the federal budget. Essential workers now worry about paying for daycare without the guarantee of paychecks. Contract workers suddenly lose jobs and may never see backpay. Parents are left with the uncertainty of how they’ll put dinner on the table. 

As always, Bread for the City is here with open arms and a warm smile. We are offering groceries, clothes, diapers and so much more. We show up every day for our neighbors—standing together in dignity, respect, service, and justice.”
– Trazy Collins, Bread for the City’s Food & Clothing Director 

Just as we did in 2019 and 2023, Bread for the City is extending support to federal workers and others impacted, who now find themselves in need of help. Our food pantries will provide a five-day supply of nutritious food—including fresh produce, meats, and pantry staples—each month for as long as the shutdown continues. As more resources become available, we’ll share updates to keep our community informed.

Bread for the City has two locations in Northwest and Southeast DC, open Monday–Thursday from 9 AM–5 PM and Friday from 9 AM–12 PM. In addition to food support, furloughed federal workers can also access our clothing and diaper program.

To mobilize quickly and address emerging needs resulting from the shutdown, we need your help. Bread for the City invites community members to volunteer and donate.

With the anticipated surge in demand for our services, we are seeking volunteers—individuals and groups alike—to help organize and pack food. Our supporters are essential to keeping our services running, and we are deeply grateful for every helping hand.

You can also make an immediate impact today. To support a family impacted by the government shutdown and fuel our operations, please consider donating. No amount is too small—every dollar helps provide food and care to our neighbors during this difficult time. Together, we can ensure every neighbor experiences community care – especially now.

Donations = dinner on the table, new shoes for school, and clean diapers for a newborn. 

“Moments like these remind us that when systems fail, it’s our communities who bear the burden. At Bread for the City, we believe no one should face that hardship alone—that’s why we’ll continue to show up, every day, with dignity and care. We hope you will join us.” – George A. Jones, CEO of Bread for the City

Please consider volunteering or giving a gift to fund this effort.

If you or a loved one require assistance and have questions, contact us at info@breadforthecity.org.