The federal government shutdown is affecting many in our community—but you’re not alone. Harvesters is here with resources to help you find food, support your neighbors, and stay informed. Together, we can ensure everyone has what they need to get through this challenging time.
Where to Get Help
If you or someone you know needs food assistance, Harvesters is here to help. Here’s where to start:
1. Use our Food Locator
Enter your ZIP code in our Food Locator to find food pantries, kitchens, and mobile distributions near you. This is the quickest way to see options in your area.
Important: Always double check hours before heading out to a distribution—dates, times, and locations may change as we update information regularly.
2. Visit our FAQ Page
Have questions? Our FAQ page explains how food assistance works, what to expect when visiting a food pantry, and other helpful tips.
Latest Update
October 24:
With the government shutdown preparing to enter its fourth week, more programs and services are being impacted. More neighbors are already turning to Harvesters’ network for help, and we anticipate an even larger spike in the need for food assistance in the weeks ahead.
30,000 to 40,000 federal civilian employees in Harvesters’ service area are set to miss their first full paycheck today, October 24.
It’s unknown if Military members will be paid on their next payday next Friday, Oct. 31 and funding for the WIC (Women, Infants and Children) program for November is also uncertain.
In addition, both Kansas and Missouri announced this week SNAP benefits for November will not be issued until after the shutdown ends. In Harvesters’ service area, 200,000 people, including 88,000 children receive SNAP benefits.
For every 1 meal Harvesters’ network provides, SNAP provides 9.
How to Give Help
Give Food
You can make a big difference by donating nonperishable food. Here’s where you can take your donations:
Harvesters: Drop off your donations at our Kansas City or Lawrence facilities during normal business hours.
Partner Agencies: You can also take food donations directly to one of our partner agencies in your area.
Local Grocery Stores: Look for Harvesters donation barrels at Price Chopper, Hy-Vee, and Dillons stores—you can drop off items while you shop!
Every can, box, and bag adds up to hope for someone in need.
Give Voice
As a supporter of Harvesters, we invite you to contact your members of Congress and urge them to work together to reopen the federal government for the sake of families, workers, and communities who are feeling the impact.
Across the 27 counties we serve, more than 40,000 federal employees are affected. Your voice can help bring attention to the real people behind these numbers.
Use our quick tool to quickly contact your members of Congress now. Your message will automatically be delivered to your lawmakers. You can send the prepared message as-is or personalize it to share why this issue matters to you and our community.
Give Money
Your gift makes a powerful difference. For every $1 donated, Harvesters can help provide two nutritious meals to families in need.
These meals mean more than food—they mean focus for a child at school, strength for a mom working the night shift, and stability for a senior choosing between groceries and medicine. Your generosity truly transforms lives.
You can make a one-time gift or become a monthly donor to help ensure our neighbors have consistent access to the food and support they need.
Give Time
From sorting and packing food in our warehouses to serving meals and distributing groceries, every task, big or small, makes a lasting difference in the lives of your neighbors. Thank you for sharing your time and talents to help feed our community.
Volunteer Requirements:
- Volunteers must be 12 years of age or older for all onsite shifts at Harvesters.
- All volunteers are required to complete a liability waiver before volunteering.
- Minors must have the waiver signed by a parent or authorized guardian.
Ready to get started?
