So What Else Launches Federal Worker Relief Program with Special Food Distribution Day on November 2
Updated November 6, 2025. Originally published October 27, 2025
With the U.S. government shutdown now stretching into its fourth week, thousands of federal employees and contractors across the DC-Maryland region are missing paychecks and turning to community organizations for help. In fact, each day of a government shutdown costs the average federal worker an average of $290 – a powerful reminder of how urgently families need stability and support in uncertain times.
Local food banks are reporting longer lines and growing need, especially for fresh groceries, diapers, and basic household items. So What Else (SWE) is responding with a dedicated Federal Worker Relief Program to ensure families can access essential food and supplies throughout the shutdown. So What Else hosted a Special Distribution Day on Sunday, November 2, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at 4924 Wyaconda Road, North Bethesda, MD, with extended hours and increased inventory for impacted families. This event brought together nearly 100 volunteers and numerous elected officials at the federal, state, and local levels. Together, we packed and distributed food for more than 550 federal workers and contractors.
Elected officials, volunteers, and SWE staff members at the Nov 2 distribution for federal workers.
Earlier in the month, So What Else held two federal worker distributions in partnership with local agencies and community organizations, reaching over 900 individuals combined. We are deeply thankful to everyone who came out to lend a hand, amplify our work, or contribute resources. Your compassion, energy, and advocacy have made these distributions possible and are helping families weather an incredibly difficult time.
“Neighbors who serve our nation shouldn’t have to choose between gas, rent, and groceries,” said David Silbert, Co-Founder and Executive Director of So What Else. “We’re scaling up distributions and streamlining access so furloughed and unpaid workers can get what they need quickly, respectfully, and free of charge.”
Effective immediately, So What Else has set aside weekday and weekend appointment blocks exclusively for federal workers to pick up fresh produce, pantry staples, and household essentials at our food rescue bank. Diapers are also available during every distribution. This relief initiative will remain in place until the shutdown is resolved.
“So What Else exists to meet moments like this,” added Silbert. “As demand rises, we’re leaning on our community-individuals, companies, and volunteers-to help us provide more meals and support to more families.”
How to Get Help
- Make a Weekday Appointment for food pick-up.
- Make a Weekend Appointment (including convenient, contactless drive-up).
How to Get Involved
- Donate Food: Drop off nonperishables and fresh items at our headquarters at 4924 Wyaconda Road, North Bethesda, MD. We are accepting donations from individuals as well as organizations and businesses.
- Donate Funds: Help So What Else expand refrigerated transport, staffing, and supplies for furloughed families.
- Volunteer: Help at our Wyaconda food bank or at other local distributions.
Click here to receive assistance or provide help to federal workers in need.
In the News
So What Else’s response to the shutdown has drawn wide attention across the region, highlighting the urgent need and the power of community partnerships. We’re proud to see this work recognized, and even prouder of the community that’s making it happen. Recent media features include:
No one should face this hardship alone. Together, we can keep refrigerators full, lights on, and families strong until paychecks resume and the government shutdown ends.
About So What Else
So What Else (SWE) is a 501(c)(3) serving the DC-Maryland region with hunger relief, youth programming, and volunteer opportunities, delivering millions of meals and essential supplies annually to neighbors in need.
Media Inquiries:
Contact:
David Silbert, Co-Founder & Executive Director, So What Else
240-602-0486
info@sowhatelse.org
