Government Shutdown Resources for Families

When a furlough hits, it can turn everyday life upside down. Whether it’s worrying about bills, making tough choices, or just trying to find your footing again, the uncertainty can feel heavy. That’s why we’ve gathered a list of local resources and community programs offering real help right here in the Rocket City — because no one should have to face it alone.

*Please note: This isn’t a comprehensive list. If you see something we’re missing, head to our social media and let us know so we can add it!*

Meals/Groceries/Household Items/Personal Items

Food Bank of North Alabama – 2000-B Vernon Ave SW
Food Pantry, is planning mobile pantries, Diaper Bank

Huntsville Assistance Program – 1001 Monroe Street SW (HSV)
103 Gin Oaks Court (Madison)
Food Pantry

Salvation Army of Huntsville – 2114 Oakwood Ave NW
Food pantry & meal programs

Little Free Pantries (various locations- check website for map)
Take what you need, leave what you can

The CARE Center– 5414 Main Drive, New Hope
Open each Monday and 2nd Saturday from 9 AM – NOON

12 Bushels Grocery Distribution- The Well Huntsville– 2351 US-72, Huntsville,
Monthly food distribution- 2nd Tuesday of month

House of the Harvest– 9144 Wall Triana Hwy, Harvest
Every Saturday – Distribution 7:15 – 9:00 AM

Manna House – 2110 S Memorial Pkwy
Open Mon, Wed, & Thurs evenings

St. Vincent de Paul Society – 256-852-2899
food & financial assistance

Refuge Church, 5700 Highway 53, Harvest
every Wednesday from 5-7pm
free groceries and household items

St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 8020 Whitesburg Dr SE, Huntsville
Free Beans & Rice and other non-perishable items on the 3rd Saturday of the month

Catholic Center of Concern, 1010 Church Street, Huntsville
Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Diapers and wipes to families once every 30 days. Diapers are size 1 through 6 can be given as they are available.

Utilities & Bills

Huntsville Utilities – not charging a late fee to any customers or turning off service due to a nonpayment during shutdown
Cell Phone Bills – Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T offering short-term payment solutions
Huntsville Assistance Program – may be granted in the form of help paying a portion of a utility bill
The Federal Employee Education & Assistance Fund has both an Emergency Hardship Loan program and Shutdown Grants available for qualifying full-time federal civilian employees.
Redstone Federal Credit Union – members can apply for a special 1.50% APR loan, up to $5,000 or your net monthly pay, with no payments for 60 days or use Skip-a-Pay on eligible loans at no cost