Infomación en Español  

The federal government is open again, and that’s great news for families who depend on help like food benefits and health coverage. Here’s what you need to know:

SNAP (Food Benefits)

  • SNAP benefits are coming back to normal.
  • If you got a smaller amount earlier this month, you will get the rest soon.
  • Keep checking your Lone Star Card balance.

Medicaid and CHIP

  • These programs were not affected.
  • Your health coverage stays the same.

WIC and TANF

  • No changes. These programs are running as usual.

Head Start

  • Some Head Start programs in Texas closed during the shutdown because they couldn’t get federal funds.
  • Now that the government is open, programs can start getting funding again, but reopening may take time.
  • Check with your local Head Start provider to find out when they will reopen.

Childcare Subsidies

  • State childcare help was not affected by the shutdown.
  • But there is already a long waitlist for help—about 95,000 children are waiting.
  • If you need childcare right now, you may need temporary options like relatives or local nonprofits.

What Should You Do?

  • Keep turning in your renewal forms on time.
  • Watch for letters or messages from Texas HHSC.
  • If you need food or childcare right now, click here to apply for food assistance or other services or simply visit our offices M-F 8:30am – 4:30pm to pick-up boxed food until benefits are fully restored.

Big Reminder

Affordable Care Act (Marketplace) health insurance discounts may end after December 31 unless Congress acts. This could make health insurance much more. expensive next year. We’ll share updates as soon as we know more.

Need help?

Call 972.446.2100 or come by the office. We’re here to support you.