Federal Government Shutdown Resources
The City of El Paso encourages residents to come together to support neighbors, family and friends impacted by the federal government shutdown. Community members can help by donating to local drives, volunteering with food assistance organizations, or sharing information about available resources. Together, we can ensure every El Pasoan has access to the help they need during this difficult time.
You can start by contributing to the Airport Employee Donation Drive, which supports essential staff such as TSA agents and air traffic controllers who are working without pay during the shutdown.
The U.S. federal government began a partial shutdown on October 1 due to a delay in the passage of funding legislation. Some federal agencies are closed or operating at limited capacity, but essential services such as Social Security, Medicare, and military operations continue.
What to expect:
- Federal Employees: Some are furloughed (unpaid leave) or working without pay. Check with your agency for instructions.
- Social Security & SSI: Benefits continue. Expect longer wait times for customer service.
- Medicare/Medicaid: Benefits continue if the shutdown is short.
- Veterans: VA hospitals and clinics remain open.
- Air Travel: TSA and CBP remain on duty, but delays may occur.
- Mail: USPS still delivers mail.
- SNAP/WIC: Benefits continue until federal funds run out.
- National Parks: Some may close or have limited services.
Key Contacts
City Specific Resources
Airport Employee Donation Drive
Support essential staff working without pay, including TSA agents and air traffic controllers.
Drop-off location: Main Terminal Lobby, El Paso International Airport
Drop-off hours: 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. | 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Suggested items: Canned goods, rice, pasta, peanut butter, granola bars, baby food, formula, shelf-stable milk, juice, toiletries, and gift cards up to $20.
Community & Homeless Assistance
Phone: (915) 212-0138
The Community and Human Development Department can help connect people experiencing or at risk of homelessness with emergency shelter, utility or rent support, case management, outreach, and other stabilizing services. View Website
El Paso Helps: City of El Paso–run collaborative resource and referral platform that connects families in crisis with emergency support services like shelter, food, mental health, and housing assistance. View Website
Military & Veterans Affairs:
Phone: (915) 332-9339
Liaison and guidance office—helping veterans access, understand, and coordinate federal, state, and local benefits, programs, and services. View Website
El Paso Water Assistance for Furloughed Federal Employees
Email [email protected] with the subject “Furloughed worker” and include a copy of your ID, proof of federal employment or furlough letter, your EPWater account number, phone number, and email address (do not send Social Security numbers or full account numbers) View Website
Other Resources For El Paso Residents
Utilities
All listed utilities offer flexible payment plans for furloughed workers.
El Paso Water
Phone: (915) 594-5500
Assistance options available. See details above for furloughed employees.
El Paso Electric
Phone: (915) 543-5970
Flexible payment options and financial assistance.
More info: EPE announcement
Texas Gas Service
Phone: (800) 700-2443
Flexible payment options and financial assistance.
View Website
Food Assistance
El Pasoans Fighting Hunger Food Bank
Phone: (915) 298-0353
View Website
Kelly Center for Hunger Relief
Phone: (915) 261-7499
View Website
Mental health & family support
Emergence Health Network Crisis Line
24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Phone: (915) 779-1800
YMCA El Paso
Waiving dues and child care fees for furloughed families.
Credit Union Support
Payment deferral and no interest loan programs may be available for members. Contact your institution for eligibility and terms.
- FirstLight Federal Credit Union
- GECU
- Raiz Federal Credit Union
- USAA
- Navy Federal Credit Union
About this Page
Information on this page is provided by the City of El Paso and partners for public awareness. Program details may change. Check linked sites or call listed numbers for the most current information. Listing organizations does not imply endorsement.
