Many families across Michigan are being affected by the ongoing federal shutdown, especially those who rely on SNAP and childcare assistance in Michigan. At Spreading Childcare, we want to make sure that both our enrolled families and any families in our wider community have access to clear information and support during this time.
Support for Families Using SNAP and Childcare in Michigan: What Has Changed
Saturday, November 1st marked one month since the federal government shut down, and Congress still hasn’t passed a fiscal year 2026 budget. It’s also the day families started facing a devastating cliff: more than 1.4 million Michiganders lost access to critical food assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
The shutdown is already forcing at least nine Head Start programs into hardship. Nearly 3,000 young children may lose access to early education, nutrition, and health services.
How SNAP and Childcare Assistance Is Affecting Michigan Families
Without SNAP, food insecurity will rise for nearly 500,000 Michigan children. Families may now have to choose between food, medication, housing, and other necessities.
The loss of Head Start funding will disrupt care for families with low incomes. Many rely on the program for childcare, nutrition, health services, and other daily support.
Where Michigan Families Can Find SNAP and Childcare Support
The State of Michigan has announced $4.5 million in additional funding for food banks. This will help bridge the gap for SNAP participants. Families who rely on SNAP or Head Start can contact local food banks for food support. Michigan families can also apply here for food support and childcare costs.
If you live in Wayne County, you can locate food here or find food here.
More Assistance Options for Michigan Families Using SNAP and Childcare Support
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- Dial 2-1-1 or visit Find Help – Michigan 2-1-1 for free, confidential assistance and referrals to food programs and support services.
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- Michigan’s Double Up Food Bucks Program gives families additional money to purchase groceries, including fresh fruits and vegetables.
Our Connection to State Support and Early Learning
We recently welcomed state observers into our GSRP classroom during Career Day. Moments like this are a reminder that early learning and family support depend on strong partnerships between licensed centers, state programs, and community resources.
A Message to Our Spreading Childcare Families
We will continue doing everything we can to support our families throughout this shutdown. If your household is directly affected by SNAP, Head Start, or childcare assistance changes, please reach out privately — we will do our best to help.
You can also stay updated on what our classrooms have been working on here:
See What We’ve Been Up To This Month
If you know a family in need of consistent, high-quality childcare during this time:
Enroll or Join Our Waitlist
We’re Here With You
We will continue to share updates if anything changes at the state or federal level. Whether you are part of the Spreading Childcare community or a Michigan family searching for support — you are not alone, and there are resources available
