The Haymarket Regional Food Pantry has experienced a notable rise in requests for food assistance since the federal government shutdown began. Executive Director Eileen Smith explained that while the pantry does not ask individuals to report their employment status, many applicants have voluntarily shared that they are federal workers seeking support.
“Overall, we have seen a 200% increase in applications over the month of October, and it continues into this month,” said Smith.
To help address this situation, the pantry is holding a pop-up food distribution for federal employees on Sunday, Nov. 9, from 1 to 4 p.m. at its Gainesville location.
For this event, the pantry coordinated with the Capital Area Food Bank to secure boxed groceries prepared specifically for affected workers. Local organizations partnered on funding and outreach, and community volunteers are scheduled to assist with distribution.
Federal employees attending the event should bring identification that confirms their government employment, such as a badge or business card. Parking will be available on-site, and the pantry has prepared a structured process informed by similar drive-through distributions held during COVID-19. Smith noted that attendee patience will support an orderly flow of vehicles and pickups.
No registration is required, and federal workers do not need to live within the pantry’s usual service area to receive assistance.
More information is available at haymarketfoodpantry.org.
Rebecca Barnes is the Publisher of Prince William Living and Brides & Weddings and volunteers with the OWL Volunteer Fire Department. When she is not working, she enjoys time with her grandchildren, visiting Disney World, and catching up on much-needed sleep.
