Thousands of furloughed federal employees and contractors got paystubs that read $0.00 for the first time last week because of the ongoing partial government shutdown, and both Alexandria City and Fairfax County are stepping in to help.
Here’s information from both jurisdictions on resources available:
Food Assistance
In addition to free or reduced-priced meals from several restaurants, unpaid workers in Virginia may be eligible to receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) food stamp benefits. Eligibility depends on several factors, including savings, liquid financial resources and the length of time since your last paycheck. To learn more about applying for SNAP benefits, call 703.746.5700 or visit commonhelp.virginia.gov.
The City of Alexandria has a webpage outlining food assistance and other resources here.
Fairfax County has a one-stop shop for assistance available: Coordinated Services Planning (CSP) connects Fairfax County residents to county and community-based services and resources. Call 703-222-0880, TTY 711.
Alexandria City Public Schools students may be eligible for free or reduced-price lunches if their parents are affected by the partial government shutdown. Apply online, or download an application from the ACPS Meal Applications page.
Fairfax County Public Schools notes on its website: “Breakfast and lunch will be provided to all students regardless of ability to pay or temporary financial circumstances. There will be no “lunch shaming” and unpaid balances will be allowed to accrue during this time.”
Other Household Expenses
Residents of both Alexandria City and Fairfax County are encouraged to call their utility providers to inquire about skipping a payment, budget billing options or other assistance to pay utility bills (including electricity, gas, oil and water).
Some banks also have ‘skip a payment’ programs in place for those affected by the furlough on private student loans, auto loans and more. Ask your lender directed for information.
Free Bus Rides
Beginning Thursday, Jan. 17, Fairfax Connector will provide free rides system-wide for federal government employees affected by the government shutdown who are still required to report for work.
- You must show your federal photo ID to the bus operator when boarding to ride free.
- By showing your federal photo ID, trips taken on all Fairfax Connector bus routes are free, including express routes to and from the Pentagon and Downtown D.C.
Other Assistance
The City of Alexandria is also providing this guidance on coping with the stress of financial uncertainty:
“The uncertainty of the government shutdown may cause increased stress and produce symptoms of anxiety and depression, even among those who are not federal workers. Effective ways to cope include exercise, yoga and deep breathing; staying connected with others, getting out, keeping busy, and practicing hobbies; staying healthy by eating and sleeping well; and refraining from alcohol and drug use. People react to stress in different ways; ask for help if it gets to be too much. Learn more about effective ways to cope with stress and where to access support when needed.”
