First Time Needing Help? You're Not Alone. The Faith Temple Food Giveaway Responds to the 2025 Government Shutdown

The 2025 federal government shutdown is affecting more than paychecks; it's affecting peace of mind. And more than ever before, we're hearing from people who never imagined they'd be in this position.

They're emailing us for the first time.

They’re showing up quietly, humbly, and often alone.

They’re young professionals.

They’re parents.

They’re recent college grads trying to pay rent, student loans, and now, find food.

At Faith Temple Food Giveaway, we want to say this clearly:

You are not broken. You are not a burden. You are not alone.

Every week, more than 1,000 people gather at our Friday food giveaway. Some have been coming on and off for years. Others lost their jobs just last week. Many are new faces, and recently, a growing number are young adults who are working hard, doing everything “right,” and still falling short.

We're here for all of you.

What's Going On with the government shutdown?

The ongoing federal shutdown has paused critical services, delayed pay for government workers, and disrupted the lives of thousands in Sioux Falls and across the country. And for those already on the edge, it’s pushed many over.

We've heard from:

• Recent grads who just started full-time jobs but haven't received a paycheck

• Young adults juggling multiple side gigs, unsure when they'll get paid next

• Federal workers are suddenly without income

• Families who fear their SNAP or WIC assistance could be delayed

  
  

This is not your fault. It's okay to ask for help.

Where to Get Help

Faith Temple Food Giveaway

📍 W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds, 100 N. Lyon Ave, Sioux Falls, 57107

🕓 Fridays, 4–6 PM (or until food runs out)

We provide fresh produce, pantry staples, bread products, and more: no ID, no paperwork, no judgment. Just come.

For Those Who Want to Help

We believe in meeting needs, not measuring worth. Whether you've come once or every week, we're here to bless others out of the gift we've been given through Jesus.

But we can't do it alone.

Volunteer: Arrive at 3:30 PM on Fridays

Donate: Every dollar helps us serve more people. faithtemplefood.com/donate

Share – Know someone quietly struggling? Invite them to come. Your kindness may be just what they need.

For some, this may be the first time they have asked for help. That takes courage. And if that's you, welcome. This community was built for moments like this.

We're praying for all who are impacted. And we'll continue to show up, week after week, to serve our neighbors with food, love, and dignity.