Federal Government Shutdown Resources
The federal government shutdown that took effect Oct. 1, 2025, is likely to have a direct and far-reaching impact on the Arlington County community, including the potential of federal workers not getting paychecks, grant payments for federally supported County programs on hold, and lost tax revenue due to drops in economic activity.
Arlington is prepared to offer resources and provide information to help assist individuals, families, and businesses impacted during and after the shutdown.
Federal and State Resources
Arlington County Resources
The Department of Human Services is monitoring the status of federal assistance programs administered by the County, including Housing Choice Voucher, SNAP, WIC and others. These programs are not currently affected by the shutdown, but DHS will update its Public Assistance page should any changes occur.
If you are a federal employee or contractor and are facing layoffs, experiencing work-related stress or find yourself in a career transition, the library is here to help.
Additionally, Arlington Thrive offers Resources for Federal Employees and Contractors, including the Federal Workforce Resilience Fund, which can provide timely financial relief and resource support.
Employment Services
The Arlington Employment Center is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. for any impacted federal employees who wish to receive job search and employment case management services. Visit the Virginia Employment Commission (VEC) for assistance in applying for Unemployment Insurance (UI).
The more than 25,000 Federal employees who work in Arlington—and the many more who call Arlington home—are important to the County’s economy and community. Arlington is working to support federal employees and contractors in our community who may need unanticipated help.
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Assistance for Federal Employees and Contractors
Emergency Assistance
For anyone in the Arlington community affected by the federal government shutdown and in need of emergency financial, housing, or transportation assistance, Arlington County is committed to helping eligible residents to the extent possible. Residents must be at or below 50% of AMI and be renting a unit that is at or below Fair Market Rent. Please call 703-228-1300 or visit Arlington County’s Department of Human Services (2100 Washington Blvd), Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Food Assistance
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Update – Oct. 23, 2025: November SNAP benefits may be delayed due to the ongoing federal shutdown. SNAP benefits are federally funded and not controlled by Arlington County. Arlington County is monitoring the situation and will provide updates as they become available. A continued federal shutdown may also impact other federally funded public assistance programs. For food assistance now, call 703-228-1300 or visit the DHS Food Assistance webpage.
Arlington County offers resources and has information on a number of programs that can help with food assistance and free food resources. One key resource is the Arlington Food Assistance Center (AFAC) — a community-based food pantry offering weekly groceries to Arlington community members. In addition, many local organizations and faith-based groups offer food distributions and meal programs throughout Arlington. Visit the Food Assistance Resources map to find nearby food pantries, meals programs, and distribution locations. If you or someone you know needs help accessing food, please contact the Department of Human Services at 703-228-1300.
Families whose income has changed — even temporarily — may now qualify for free school meals based on federal income guidelines. Applications are accepted online, and all information shared is kept confidential. Once approved, eligibility lasts for the entire school year. Additionally, 10 Arlington Public Schools offer free meals to all students, regardless of income or application status. If you have questions or need help with the application process, please contact APS Food & Nutrition Services at 703-228-8000.
Housing Assistance
Arlington County urges landlords and rental property owners to exercise flexibility to not displace or adversely affect households during this difficult period. Residents who anticipate challenges in making their rent payment are encouraged to speak with their landlords about their circumstances. Arlington County’s housing and rental assistance programs seek to help tenants facing eviction.
If you are experiencing difficulty paying your rent, contact your landlord as soon as possible. Ask if partial payments are accepted until the rent is paid in full. If so, write out a payment plan that reflects what you can afford. For additional help with rent and expenses, contact 703-228-1300 or dhs@arlingtonva.us.
Child Care
For families enrolled in the Arlington Public Schools Extended Day program and experiencing difficulty paying, help is available. Please contact the Extended Day team at 703-228-8000 (option 3) to explore solutions that may work for your situation.
Tax Deadlines
If you are having trouble meeting a tax deadline due to the furlough, call the Treasurer’s Office at 703-228-4000 for information.
Park and Recreation Fees
The Department of Parks and Recreation maintains a Fee Reduction Policy for individuals or families who might have difficulty paying park and recreation fees.
Small Business Assistance
Small businesses needing assistance can contact Arlington BizLaunch, the County’s small business and entrepreneurial assistance network. Please contact the office if you are seeking assistance on how to restructure your business, financing or to discuss changes to your business strategy.