It’s now one month into the government shutdown. Here in Central Texas, tens of thousands of federal employees face the uncertainty of when they get their next paycheck. For Debra, an IRS employee of more than three years, that uncertainty meant something else too — a chance to give back.
A Pause in Pay, Not in Purpose
Debra works for the Department of Treasury, processing paper tax returns for the Internal Revenue Service. Normally, her days are filled with steady data entry — but when the government shut down on October 1, her routine and paycheck came to a halt.
“We’re supposed to be able to return to work within four hours of being called,” she explained. “So even though it doesn’t look like we’re going anytime soon, we can’t visit family or make plans. You just don’t know when that call will come.”
As days stretched into weeks, uncertainty deepened. Federal employees like Debra were left without pay, unsure when relief would arrive.
“We still have rent to make, car payments, insurance — all of that. The days don’t stop for us.”
Double the Stress, Shared Strength
The impact of the shutdown hit Debra’s household twice as hard. Her daughter, who also works for the IRS, was furloughed too.
“People say, ‘At least you have each other,’” Debra said. “But if we had roommates or partners working somewhere else, it would help soften the blow a little.”
They planned ahead by stocking up on pantry staples — a bit of foresight that helped them stretch their budget while paychecks stopped. But as weeks passed, the stress of uncertainty grew heavier.
“It’s scary, very stressful,” she admitted. “A co-worker of my daughter has eight children. I have no idea how she’s going to make ends meet.”
Serving While Waiting
Instead of waiting idly, Debra chose action. She and her daughter joined other federal employees volunteering at the Central Texas Food Bank (CTFB), helping prepare food for neighbors experiencing the same kind of instability they were facing.
“It felt good,” she said. “We packed about 7,600 pounds of squash and potatoes into 10-pound bags — those will go out to families. It’s really good to know we had that kind of impact.”
Working in CTFB’s warehouse was a reminder of shared vulnerability and resilience.
“It’s a real reminder that people experience not having enough food — not being able to make ends meet,” she reflected. “And it can happen to anybody.”
A Message to the Community
As someone navigating food insecurity for the first time, Debra hopes more people understand that needing help isn’t a moral failing — it’s a reality that can touch anyone.
“The biggest thing is the stigma around people who need the food bank, who need welfare, who need SNAP,” she said. “It doesn’t take much for people to end up in a position where they need those things. Think twice before you start judging people.”
She also offered a clear call to action:
“What you can do is come to the food bank and donate your time. They’ll take your money too,” she laughed. “There are so many ways to help.”
Finding Hope in Connection
For Debra, volunteering became both a grounding act and a reminder of community.
“This is a real difficult time for a lot of people,” she said. “Not just people on a federal shutdown. SNAP benefits are supposed to go out at the first of the month, and Thanksgiving is coming up. People need help — and hope — more than ever.”
When Neighbors Step Up, Hope Follows
Debra’s story is one of thousands unfolding across Central Texas. As the government shutdown continues, families, federal employees, and contractors alike are facing missed paychecks and mounting uncertainty. But there’s one thing that remains constant — our community’s willingness to help.
Whether you’re a federal worker temporarily out of pay or a neighbor feeling the ripple effects of the shutdown, help is here when you need it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I qualify for food assistance?
You don’t need to qualify. We don’t turn anyone away. Whether you’re facing a short-term setback or ongoing hardship, you’re welcome here. Many Central Texans are just one emergency away from needing help, and there’s no shame in seeking support. Get Help
How many Central Texans are impacted by the government shutdown?
More than 270,000 Central Texans rely on SNAP benefits that are paused during the federal government shutdown, creating a $44.5 million gap in grocery purchasing power. Another 76,000 federal and military workers across our 21-county service area are also missing paychecks. The Central Texas Food Bank and our partners are expanding emergency food assistance to meet a 35% surge in demand.
How do donations to CTFB help feed Central Texans?
Every dollar makes a real difference. Thanks to our bulk purchasing power and partnerships, we can stretch your dollar much further than a typical grocery budget — meaning $30 helps feed a family of four for an entire week. Your gift provides fresh produce, pantry staples, and nutritious meals for neighbors who might otherwise go without. Donate Now
Where can I sign up to volunteer?
You can sign up for volunteer shifts in the warehouse, kitchen, our mobile pantries, or garden at any time. Volunteering is one of the most direct ways to support your neighbors during the shutdown and beyond. Sign Up to Volunteer
