How the 2025 Government Shutdown Could Affect Thanksgiving Traditions Across the Nation
With the threat of a government shutdown casting a shadow over our nation, millions of Americans may face the heartbreaking reality of going without meals during one of the busiest grocery holidays of the year. Thanksgiving, on Thursday, November 27, 2025, symbolizes gratitude and togetherness, yet many families across the country are worried about how they will provide for their loved ones.
I extend my heartfelt empathy to those who depend on EBT food stamps to feed themselves and their families. Elders and individuals with disabilities rely on essential food items to maintain their health and manage their medications. Young mothers, working tirelessly, often struggle with rising costs and concerns over the quality and safety of daycare facilities—trust can be hard to find when balancing long working hours and the well-being of their children.
While it’s true that some individuals misuse SNAP benefits, we must remember not to punish everyone for the actions of a few. The government officials and policymakers involved often go home each day secure and well-compensated, while countless Americans are left vulnerable and struggling to meet basic needs. It’s time to prioritize compassion and support for those who need it most.
This headline appeared in my email BREAKING: Trump administration says it will partially fund SNAP benefits after judges’ ruling.
It’s not clear how much beneficiaries will receive, nor how quickly beneficiaries will see value show up on the debit cards they use to buy groceries. The process of loading the SNAP cards, which involves steps by state and federal government agencies and vendors, can take up to two weeks in some states. The average monthly benefit is usually about $190 per person.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture, which oversees the nation’s largest food program, said last month that benefits for November wouldn’t be paid out due to the federal government shutdown. That set off a scramble by food banks, state governments and the nearly 42 million Americans who receive the aid to find ways to ensure access to groceries. Source: USDA
Even sharing this, it is still not clear when this will take effect. In the meantime, let’s talk about Thanksgiving and how the tradition has been very commercialized for many years.
Thanksgiving is a holiday primarily centered around giving thanks and expressing gratitude for the blessings and harvest of the past year. Its origins trace back to early colonial times in North America, where Pilgrims and Native Americans reportedly shared a feast to celebrate a successful harvest. Over time, it evolved into a national holiday in the United States, emphasizing themes of gratitude, family, and community.
Beyond its historical roots, many people see Thanksgiving as a time to reflect on what they are thankful for, to gather with loved ones, and to share a meal. It also serves as a reminder to appreciate the abundance in our lives and to acknowledge the importance of compassion and generosity.
In essence, the true meaning of Thanksgiving is about gratitude, togetherness, and recognizing the good in our lives and communities.
Here is the menu for a wonderful Thanksgiving, and of course I added my favorites; banana pudding and 7 layer salad and cheese cake!
Appetizers:
Stuffed Mushrooms with Herb Cream Cheese
Cranberry Brie Britters
Deviled Eggs with a Touch of Bacon
Veggie Platter with Hummus and Dip
7-layer Salad
Main Course:
- Roast Turkey with Herb Butter and Gravy
- Honey Glazed Ham (optional for variety)
Side Dishes:
- Traditional Mashed Potatoes with Gravy
- Sweet Potato Casserole topped with Marshmallows
- Green Bean Almondine
- Cranberry Sauce (Homemade or Store-bought)
- Stuffing or Dressing (with sausage, cranberries, or nuts)
- Cornbread or Dinner Rolls
Desserts:
- Pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream
- Pecan Pie
- Banana Pudding
- Apple Crisp with Vanilla Ice Cream
- Mini Cheesecakes or Other Fall-themed Desserts
Beverages:
- Sparkling Apple Cider
- Red and White Wine
- Coffee and Tea
Bud Light Lime
St. Louis Foodbank events:
All images are from Facebook and are generated for the open public’s use
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Top-down view of a Thanksgiving meal spread on a dark wooden table, featuring a golden-brown roasted turkey on a silver platter, mashed potatoes with butter, stuffing, dinner rolls, and a small decorative pumpkin.”
