Advice & Facts

Staying Informed During the Federal Shutdown

Many families rely on federal programs for daily needs. This page shares updates, helpful tips, and ways to get support while some government services are paused.

Supporting Our Community Through Uncertainty

At Easterseals Southern California, we know that changes to federal services can be confusing and stressful—especially for people with disabilities and their families who rely on these services every day.

This page is here to help everyone stay informed and find support. You’ll find:

Updates about federal programs
Tips for finding help if services are delayed
Ways to speak up and advocate for your needs

What You Should Know

Medi-Cal (called Medicaid in other states) helps pay for health care and support services for people with disabilities.
In California, Medi-Cal is funded by the state through June 30, 2026, and by the federal government through December 2025.
This year, 37% of the money for disability services comes from Medi-Cal.
If the shutdown lasts past December 2025, it could affect how much federal money is available.

Our Services Are Not Currently Affected

We want you to know that Easterseals Southern California programs are continuing as usual.
There are no current changes to our services or staff.

What’s Happening With Other Services

🛒 CalFresh (SNAP)

Latest Update: Following a judge’s order, the Trump Administration will provide a 50% SNAP payment for November using contingency funds. Payments must be sent by Wednesday, but recipients may wait days to weeks to receive funding.
Who is affected: All CalFresh households.
What to do:
- Find a local food bank.
- Call 2-1-1 anytime to get help finding free food and local resources.

👶 WIC (Women, Infants, and Children Program)

California WIC expects to keep giving benefits through November 30.

🏥 Covered California (Health Insurance Marketplace)

Open Enrollment starts November 1.
Important change: Special discounts called "Enhanced Premium Tax Credits" will not be available this year.
What this means: Monthly insurance costs may go up—possibly double for some people.
Who is affected:
- People buying insurance through Covered California.
- These credits helped individuals earning up to $65,000 and families of four earning up to $130,000.

💵 SSI (Supplemental Security Income)

SSI payments will continue during the shutdown.
Customer service may be slower, but the program is not affected.
SSI is important for many people with disabilities in California.

What to Expect During the Shutdown

Some federal agencies may be closed or slower to respond.
Many federal workers are not working or getting paid during the shutdown.
Some “essential” workers—like those in defense, law enforcement, Medicare, and Medicaid—are still working.
The FDA will continue checking the safety of drugs and medical devices.
You may notice delays in getting help or answers from other federal offices.

Need Help?

We’re here to support you.

If you would like assistance navigating the various resources, or finding information specific to your area, please contact Easterseals’ Customer Success team. The team is available Monday-Friday 8:00 am-6:00pm.

Customer Success
1 (855) ESSC 411 (377-2411)

CustomerSuccess@essc.org