The federal government shut down on October 1, 2025, and is still shut down as of Wednesday, November 5.
According to NPR, this marks the longest government shutdown in U.S. history, pushing past 36 days.
Many families in Maine are feeling the impact, including those relying on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, which has led to a number of local restaurants stepping up to help out.
Maine Restaurants Helping Out During Government Shutdown
It’s no surprise to see Maine make an immediate effort to aid those in need. From free meals to community food programs, the outpouring of generosity is a reminder that when challenges hit, Mainers will look out for one another.
Among the first restaurants to act, Sam’s shared a heartfelt Facebook post saying “Children shouldn’t be victims of shutdowns” and offered up free pizzas for kids 12 and under.
In Brunswick, Flight Deck Brewing and Wild Oats Bakery teamed up for a “Family Fridge” at the Brunswick Landing YMCA. Wild Oats Bakery shared on Facebook that both locations’ teams were “preparing fresh, from-scratch meals” and stocking the community fridge for anyone in need.
These are just a few examples of the kindness spreading across the state as Maine restaurants rally to keep neighbors fed. Let’s take a look at some of the others.
19 Maine Restaurants Stepping Up to Help While SNAP Benefits Are Delayed
Gallery Credit: Sean McKenna
READ MORE: Maine Woman Shares Incredible Act of Kindness From a Total Stranger
Every effort, big or small, helps make sure fellow Mainers don’t go hungry during this difficult time.
If we missed a restaurant helping out during the shutdown, please reach out or comment on our social media page to let us know.
LOOK: Food and drink items that are highly restricted or banned in the U.S.Stacker explores snacks and other food items banned in the U.S. From tasty cheeses to the famed Scottish dish haggis, these 30 foods aren’t welcome in most of the United States.
Gallery Credit: Stacker
Dining and Cooking