While the government shutdown is technically over, its impact as the longest shutdown in American history will continue to live on. 43 days of decreased SNAP benefits, travel, and court operations, will cause the country to take a long time to recover. Funding that was passed to re-open the government will only last until January 30, and from there is potential for another shutdown. This has had a number of impacts on Stockton: some negative, but also hopeful as the community continues to support each other and come together, looking towards the future despite recent challenges. 

Dayvis Murralles, president of Los Latinos Unidos, described his decision to cancel their club’s trip to DC as a result of the shutdown. The negatives outweighed the positives, such as the Smithsonian museum’s closing, and safety concerns regarding the widespread No Kings Day protests in DC at the time. Despite this, he hopes they will be able to redirect the funds to a new trip in the near future. He also remains hopeful that the situation regarding undocumented people begins to move more towards “a positive and less hostile direction.”

On a positive note, the Stockton University food pantry continues to thrive, and is determined to keep providing support to the community no matter what the future holds. While they have seen an increase in food pantry visits since October 2024, with up to 300 more visits in 2025, they remain confident in their ability to continue providing steady support, ensuring that everyone in Stockton has stable access to food. 

New inventory at the Galloway pantry has been experiencing a notable depletion within just 48-72 hours after receiving orders, and there has been a 20-30% increase in pantry usage through the Community Food Bank of New Jersey. This indicates that many people are struggling more than before, but thanks to the Food Assistance team’s close monitoring of these statistics, the program maintains that no matter what, no Osprey will go hungry. 

The food pantry would not be able to support the community during this time without the help of its members. The Stockton University Foundation fund, and other partners that have made everything possible. Their highly effective Reverse Advent Calendar donation drive has twenty-five departments signed up to help as well.

If you are interested in helping with the Reverse Advent Calendar, there is an Amazon wishlist you can order from: it can be found on their website, to keep the supply abundant. In addition, you can reach out to their office through email (FoodAssistanceProgram@stockton.edu) to inquire about further volunteering or any other questions. 

The Stockton community will continue to stay strong in the face of hardship, and for those experiencing any personal difficulties as a result of the shutdown, know that there is support available.