Image courtesy DCF

The Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) is monitoring the federal government shutdown and its potential effects on programs, with the latest update posted on its website on October 24. Kansans are encouraged to follow DCF on social media or subscribe to the DCF Direct newsletter for the latest updates.

Federal officials have warned that November SNAP benefits may be delayed if no action is taken by October 28, 2025. In that case, benefits would not be issued until the shutdown ends.

Food banks and pantries are already under strain. Kansans can find resources through Kansas Food Source, Harvesters , the United Way 211 hotline, or 1-800-CHILDREN. Those who wish to help can donate to local food programs via Kansas Food Bank, Second Harvest, or Harvesters.

Other programs administered by DCF have also been affected by the federal government shutdown. TEFAP food shipments were paused in October due to funding delays, with November shipments planned but contingent on the availability of federal funds. Disability Determination Services continue to operate as usual, providing support for Social Security disability claims.

The start of the 2026 Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) will depend on approval of federal funding. Meanwhile, federal grants that support child welfare programs, including Family Preservation, Family First, adoption, and kinship services, are currently unaffected, and operations for these programs continue as normal.