Federal Government Shutdown Impacts and Resources

Fairfax County offices are operating as normal during the federal government shutdown.

We are aware that a prolonged federal government shutdown may impact the lives of many families living in Fairfax County and we are here to assist during this time. Residents who work in the service industry may also experience economic hardships due to the implications on tourism, retail and restaurants.

“Sadly, we are once again faced with a federal government shutdown, and for our region the impacts are real and immediate," Board of Supervisors Chairman Jeff McKay said. "The Washington metropolitan area has already lost more than 21,000 federal jobs, not including the many contractors who power our economy. Meanwhile, the commonwealth relies on our region for nearly half of its total economic output. A recent Brookings report shows our region losing federal jobs at twice the national rate, unemployment nearing 5 percent and growth projected to stall. That is why we are working closely with our congressional delegation to minimize the impact on our region and continuing to advocate for federal employees and families who keep our communities strong.”

Health and Human Services

Our Health and Human Services agencies are continuing to operate as normal to connect families and individuals to county and community-based resources to assist them in meeting their basic needs, including food, utility and rent assistance. Health and Human Services agencies will partner with community providers and community-based organizations to ensure that resources are available to those in need.

Coordinated Services Planning
Residents in need can contact the Coordinated Services Planning hotline at 703-222-0880 (TTY 711) for assistance in connecting to county- and community-based resources. This service is available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Multilingual specialists can assist callers in multiple languages.

SNAP, TANF and Medicaid
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and Medicaid programs operated by the Department of Family Services are not impacted. If you have questions, call the customer call center at 703-324-7500.

Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Program
The State Women, Infants and Children program aims to improve the health of pregnant, postpartum and breastfeeding women, infants and children under five years of age. For all WIC appointments and questions, call 703-246-5599.

Human Services Resource Guide
The Human Services Resource Guide connects residents with thousands of nonprofit and government services. Listings include detailed service descriptions, eligibility requirements, locations (maps and directions) and contact information.

Child Care

School Age Child Care and the Beyond the Bell Pilot Program
Families enrolled in SACC and the Beyond the Bell pilot program who are unable to make payments should contact the Department of Neighborhood and Community Services to discuss options. Call 703-449-8989 or email saccregistration@fairfaxcounty.gov.

Child Care Assistance Referral
Families in the CCAR program who are having difficulty making payments should reach out to CCAR staff at 703-449-8484 or email CCARInfo@fairfaxcounty.gov to explore resources and support available.

Employees Child Care Center
Families enrolled in the ECCC program who are unable to make payments should reach out to staff to discuss options. Call 703-449-8989 or email saccregistration@fairfaxcounty.gov.

Pets

Residents in need of pet food or other pet resources may visit the Animal Shelter’s Pet Resource Center webpage for a comprehensive list of resources and support.

Parks and Libraries

Our parks may be busier than usual because some area national parks, museums and monuments may be closed during the shutdown.

Fairfax County Public Library will remain open with normal operating hours at all 23 branches located throughout the county. 

• Applying for a library card is free, and free Wi-Fi and public computers are available at all branches. 
• FCPL anticipates an increase in attendance at daily free programs and events for all ages, ranging from book clubs and school-age enrichment activities to arts, crafts and exercise. Through our support services coordinator, FCPL regularly provides programs at our branches and virtually around a variety of topics that promote wellness and community resilience.
• FCPL is also a trusted community resource for those seeking employment. The online Job Search and Career Resources Guide includes education and career-related digital resources and a calendar of topical events, as well as more generalized resources such as job search websites, information about unemployment and labor laws, and other resources specifically for federal workers. 

Tax Payments

Any taxpayers who are unable to pay their county taxes due to the shutdown will be handled on a case-by-case basis and offered a payment plan, so their account is not sent to collection. Call 703-222-8234 (English and Español), TTY 711, weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

More Resources

Fairfax County is committed to helping our residents, government employees, active military/veterans, contractors, nonprofits and businesses who may be affected by actions, changes or disruptions to federal services or employment.