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Dear Friend,

 

With the federal government locked in the second-longest shutdown in American history, the effects on you and your loved ones may continue to grow. I understand the uncertainty and anxiety this brings for so many, but please know that you are not alone. My team and I are here to offer support, provide helpful information, and share resources to help you navigate this difficult situation.

 

In this newsletter, you will find updates on how the shutdown is affecting various programs, including changes to SNAP benefits, along with resources that can help support you and your family during the shutdown.

 

As a reminder, our state government offices—including mine—continue to operate at full capacity, and we are always available to help.

 

As always, my team and I are here to serve you and provide any assistance available.


In Solidarity,
 

Darrin Camilleri

State Senator

District 4
Michigan Senator Darrin Camilleri banner image

 

November SNAP Benefits Paused Amid Federal Government Shutdown
The U.S. Dept. of Agriculture (USDA) recently alerted the Michigan Dept. of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) that due to the ongoing government shutdown and subsequent funding lapse, there is a limited availability of funds to pay full November Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for approximately 42 million individuals across the nation. As a result, USDA has directed the state to pause November SNAP issuance and ongoing benefits until further notice. To read the official statement from MDHHS, click here.

 

MDHHS is communicating directly with neighbors enrolled in SNAP. If you currently receive SNAP benefits, or have a pending application for benefits, you will receive updates directly from MDHHS about the status of your benefits, including potential delays and when payments restart. Any already-issued benefits will remain available for use, and funds currently available on your Bridge Card can continue to be used without interruption.

 

If you need food assistance, please visit one of the local food pantries below:

  • Gleaners Community Food Bank (Website)
  • Forgotten Harvest (Website)
  • Loaves and Fishes Salvation Army (Website), Call 734-442-0031
  • First Congregation of Gibraltar (Website), Call 734-676-5266
  • Saint Mary Parish (Website), Call 734-721-8745
  • Saint Philip Lutheran (Website), Call 734-676-7141
  • Saint Cyprian (Website), Call 734-283-1366
  • Bethel Baptist, Call 734-284-6300

From food and utility assistance to mental health support and emergency shelter — Michigan 211 can also connect you and your loved ones to critical resources. To get in touch with a trained specialist for free, confidential support, you can dial 2-1-1, visit mi211.org or text your zip code to 898-211.

 

Support for Federal Workers in Michigan Impacted by Federal Layoffs and Funding Cuts
Another consequence of the federal government shutdown is that many Michiganders who are employed by federal departments and agencies have been furloughed without pay or laid off entirely. If you or a loved one has been affected by these decisions, please utilize the resources the Michigan Dept. of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) has compiled.

 

Additional Resources
Workers who recently lost their jobs through no fault of their own may be eligible to apply for temporary financial assistance through the Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA).

 

UIA has resources in place to help any laid off federal worker, including:

  • UIA Claimant Roadmap: An easy-to-follow, six-step guide to applying for and understanding unemployment benefits.
  • Online Coaching Sessions: Web-based guidance from UIA staff who walk users through the steps needed to complete an application and qualify for payments.
  • UIA Community Connect: This program partners with local groups to provide guidance for workers from underserved groups who have faced barriers when filing for jobless benefits.
  • Schedule an Appointment: Schedule either an in-person, phone or virtual appointment to speak with a UIA Customer Service Agent.
  • Looking for Work: Tips to understanding your responsibilities when it comes to conducting and documenting your successful work searches.
  • Assistance with Setting Up an Account: Workers must create a MiLogin account before setting up a MiWAM account.

For additional assistance, workers can find FAQs, videos and other resources at Michigan.gov/UIA. To reach an agent or unlock a MiWAM or MiLogin account, they can call Customer Service at 866-500-0017.

 

In partnership with LEO’s Office of Employment and Training, Michigan Works! agencies are also available to assist affected federal workers. Services offered through Michigan Works! include:

  • Basic Career Services, which are available to all workers seeking services.
  • Individualized Career Services, which are designed for workers who are unable to obtain employment through basic career services alone.
  • Training Services, which are necessary to equip workers with the skills needed to obtain and retain employment.

To connect with your local Michigan Works! service center, call 800-285-WORKS (9675) or visit Michigan.gov/MichiganWorks.

 

Additional helpful sites for workers:

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