The state government shutdown has a profound impact on all Minnesotans, especially the most vulnerable. Food and shelter are basic needs, but unfortunately, not all hunger and homelessness programs are considered “essential services.” Here’s a list of some of the main state-funded programs and how they’re impacted by the shutdown:
- Food Distribution: The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP), which provides nearly 30 percent of the food distributed by Minnesota food shelves, was initially listed as a non-essential service. However, that decision was overturned after an appeal by Hunger Solutions Minnesota. The program is federally funded but relies on one state employee to ensure the food is properly stored and distributed.
- Food Support: Food Support (food stamps) will continue to be funded during the shutdown.
- Homeless Shelters and Services—UPDATE: Services for the homeless were not initially listed as essential, but Ramsey County Judge Kathleen Gearin ruled on July 13 that the following programs are essential: Transitional Housing Grants, Emergency Services Program, Long-Term Homeless Services Grants, Runaway & Homeless Youth, HUD Emergency Services Grant Program, Rural & Homeless Youth, and Crisis Housing. These programs are a critical funding source for emergency shelters, transitional housing programs and permanent supportive housing programs.
- Domestic Violence Shelters: Services for victims of domestic violence were not included in the homeless services ruling on July 13. Advocates have petitioned to have domestic violence services added and are awaiting a decision. In the meantime, at least two domestic violence shelters have closed as a result of the shutdown: Lewis House in Hastings and Safe Haven Shelter in Duluth. The families staying in those shelters were placed in safe housing.
To learn how you can advocate for hunger and homelessness programs in the state government, visit Hunger Solutions Minnesota and the Minnesota Coalition for the Homeless.
