EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — The White House released data on Friday, Oct. 3, showing the impacts of what a possible month-long shutdown of the government could look like.
Roughly 4,100 Texans and 300 New Mexicans could face unemployment. Additionally, nearly 784,000 women and children in Texas and 41,000 in New Mexico could lose access to their WIC benefits.
The White House also adds that about 3.45 million Texans and 458,000 New Mexicans could see disruptions of their SNAP benefits.
KTSM has put together a list of resources and information available to those affected by the government shutdown.
Texas
Credit Unions
- FirstLight Federal Credit Union
- GECU
- Raiz Federal Credit Union
- One Source Federal Credit Union
- Nusenda Credit Union
- Evolve Credit Union
Utility Companies
- El Paso Electric has programs for federal workers, including payment arrangements and access to the Bright Hearts Fund for those at risk of disconnection. Call (915) 543-5711 for details.
- El Paso Water offers a Furloughed Customers Assistance Program, which includes payment extensions, fee waivers, and flexible payment plans. Call 842-WATR (9287) and press “0” for assistance.
- Unemployment Benefits: Federal workers can apply for unemployment benefits through the Texas Workforce Commission. If you are retroactively paid for the time you were furloughed, you will have to repay the benefits.
Food and housing
- 2-1-1 Texas: Dial 2-1-1 to get connected with resources for food, housing, and other social services.
- El Pasoans Fighting Hunger Food Bank: This food bank serves El Paso, Hudspeth, and Culberson counties. You can visit their website or call (915) 298-0353 for more information.
- SNAP and Other Nutrition Programs: The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) may experience disruptions depending on the length of the shutdown. Visit the Texas Health and Human Services website for information on benefits.
Mental health and family services
- Emergence Health Network: This network offers a 24/7 crisis hotline at (915) 779-1800, staffed by mental health professionals.
- YMCA of El Paso: For government employee members, the YMCA offers a dues deferment program. They will also defer payments for children enrolled in after-school programs.
New Mexico
Food
- The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Child Nutrition (CN) Programs will continue operations at least until October 31, 2025.
Social Security
- Checks will be mailed out as usual. However, new applications for benefits or to update your information may experience delays. You can contact the district office at (505) 346-6781
Federal grants and business opportunities
- Although people are encouraged to submit grant applications ahead of time, there may be a limited staff to assist, depending on the agency. You can contact at 1-800-581-4726 or email at Support@Grants.gov.
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