October 23, 2025 | Absolute Care Connections Team
As autumn paints Pennsylvania in vibrant hues, a federal government shutdown—now in its 23rd day—casts a shadow. This historic stalemate, coupled with Pennsylvania’s own four-month state budget impasse, is creating uncertainty for families relying on critical programs like Social Security, SNAP (food stamps), Medicare, and Medicaid. At Absolute Care Connections, we’re committed to bridging care and community, so we’re here to break down what this shutdown means for you and share practical steps to navigate these challenges.
Why Is This Happening?
The federal government shut down on October 1, 2025, after Congress failed to pass the 12 spending bills needed for fiscal year 2026. Partisan disagreements over spending cuts and tax policies have left federal agencies underfunded, furloughing over 66,000 civilian workers in Pennsylvania alone. With no resolution in sight, essential safety net programs are feeling the strain, hitting our most vulnerable neighbors hardest—seniors, families, and those with disabilities.
Social Security: Payments Continue, Services Slow
What’s Happening: Social Security payments, vital for 2.5 million Pennsylvanians, are safe. Funded through payroll taxes, benefits like retirement and SSI are unaffected. However, the Social Security Administration is operating with half its staff, causing:
- Long wait times at offices in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and beyond.
- Delays in new applications, benefit verifications, or replacement Medicare cards.
What You Can Do:
- Manage your account online at SSA.gov to avoid long waits.
- Print replacement Medicare cards digitally if needed.
- Contact us at Absolute Care Connections for help navigating SSA services.
SNAP (Food Stamps): November Benefits at Risk
What’s Happening: SNAP, supporting nearly 2 million Pennsylvanians with $366 million monthly, faces a crisis. October benefits were paid, but November payments are frozen without federal funding. Food insecurity is rising in places like Fayette County and Philadelphia, where reliance is high.
What You Can Do:
- Stretch your budget using the USDA’s Thrifty Food Plan.
- Connect with local food banks via Feeding Pennsylvania or Philabundance.
- Call 211 for emergency food assistance in your area.
Medicare: Coverage Holds, But Watch for Delays
What’s Happening: Medicare, serving 2.8 million in PA, continues uninterrupted for doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescriptions. However, with reduced staff at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS):
- Open enrollment (through Dec 7) may see processing delays.
- Replacement cards and appeals could take longer.
What You Can Do:
- Review or update plans now at Medicare.gov.
- Reach out to our team for personalized guidance on Medicare enrollment.
Medicaid: Stable Now, But Long-Term Concerns
What’s Happening: Medicaid, covering 3.5 million Pennsylvanians, is funded through the first quarter of 2026. Enrollment and provider payments continue, but a prolonged shutdown could strain state budgets, especially with PA’s own budget woes. Rural hospitals and CHIP (children’s coverage) may face delays.
What You Can Do:
- Check eligibility at myCOMPASS.pa.gov.
- Explore community health centers via HRSA.gov for care options.
- Let Absolute Care Connections assist with Medicaid questions or renewals.
We’re Stronger Together
This shutdown threatens the well-being of our communities, from skipped meals in Scranton to delayed care in Erie. At Absolute Care Connections, we believe in standing with you through tough times. Here’s how you can take action:
- Stay Informed: Follow updates from Pennsylvania DHS or the USDA.
- Advocate: Contact Sen. Fetterman (202-224-4254) or Sen. McCormick (202-224-6324) to push for a resolution. Connect with Us: Share your story or questions at contact@absolutecare.us. We’re here to help with resources and support.
- Connect with Us: Share your story or questions at info@absolutecare.us. We’re here to help with resources and support.
Resources for Pennsylvania Families
- Food Assistance: Feeding Pennsylvania | 211.org
- Social Security: SSA.gov
- Medicare/Medicaid: Medicare.gov | myCOMPASS.pa.gov
- Local Support: Reach out to ACR at (814) 792-6028 or visit absolutecare.us.
How is the shutdown affecting your family? Comment below or email us—we’re here to listen and support. Together, we’ll bridge the gap and keep our Pennsylvania communities strong.