Resource Corner – November 2025

Posted on by Pathfinder
Green and centered white color block background image with light green sunburst on the right side of the image. Text in the white color block "Resource Corner." On the top left of the image is a circular framed photo of Pathfinder's website on a laptop screen. To the bottom right of the image is Pathfinder's branded graphic in a white circular frame. On the bottom right of image on a small white geometical shaped color block is text, "TNPathfinder.org."

Tennessee Disability Pathfinder offers a growing library of disability resources available at TNPathfinder.org. In addition to the growing directory of resources on Pathfinder’s website, here are some we’re highlighting this month

Illustration showing a benefits card and a grocery bag filled with fresh produce and bread. The word “SNAP” is crossed out in bold purple letters, and a label at the top reads “Federal Government Shutdown,” symbolizing the suspension of SNAP benefits during a shutdown.

Important Updates: Federal Shutdown & SNAP Benefits

Due to the ongoing federal government shutdown, the Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS) has stated that they do not have a confirmed date for when November partial Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits will be available.

Here’s what you need to know:

  • October benefits were issued as usual.
  • November benefits are delayed, with no confirmed date for when partial benefits will be available. 
  • You can still use any unused benefits from previous months.
  • TDHS will continue to accept and process SNAP applications and renewals, but new benefits will not be distributed until federal operations resume.
  • Families First benefits are NOT impacted.

Need Food Assistance?

  • Visit FeedTN.org to find local food distribution and volunteer opportunities.
  • Explore community resources at TN Community Compass.

For the latest updates, visit:
TDHS Federal Shutdown Information

 

A small model house placed on a calendar page, next to an envelope stamped with the words “PAST DUE” in red letters, symbolizing overdue rent or mortgage payments.Would you like me to create a shorter version (under 125 characters) for accessibility, or keep this detailed version for context?
A past due bill sitting with a model house on a calendar, behind on your mortgage payments.

Need Help with Rent or Mortgage?

Emergencies can happen when you least expect them, and keeping a roof over your head is critical. The Shelby County Community Services Agency (CSA) offers the Comprehensive Emergency Assistance Program (CEAP) to help residents facing a housing crisis due to eviction or foreclosure.

What is CEAP?
This program provides short-term financial assistance for rent or mortgage payments to prevent loss of housing during difficult times.

Who Qualifies?

  • Must be a Shelby County resident
  • Household income at or below 125% of Federal Poverty Guidelines
  • Proof of income or documentation of wage reduction/loss
  • Current lease or mortgage agreement
  • Valid state-issued photo ID and Social Security cards for all household members
    (Section 8 paperwork required if applicable)

Important Notes:

  • Unexpected costs like repairs or medical bills do not qualify
  • No payment is ever required for CSA services—beware of scams

How to Apply:

  • Applications are online only
  • The portal opens the first Monday of each month at 8:30 AM
  • Slots fill quickly and are first-come, first-served

Income Guidelines Example (FY 2026):

  • 1 person: $19,562/year
  • 4 people: $40,187/year
    (Add $6,875 for each additional person)

Need to Appeal?
Clients can appeal decisions within 30 days by submitting a complaint form to their caseworker.

For details and to apply, visit:
Shelby County CSA Rent/Mortgage Assistance 

Informational flyer from the Nashville Metropolitan Action Commission announcing program adjustments beginning November 3. The flyer explains that due to the federal government shutdown, assistance for utilities, rent, mortgage, and other emergency services will change. It lists THDA Crisis Criteria for utility help: households with disabled members, children age 5 or younger, veterans, adults over 60, and applicants already disconnected. Other applicants will be placed on a waiting list until funding is restored. It notes that MAC’s rent, mortgage, deposits, and emergency programs will continue as funding allows, and programs like Head Start, Early Head Start, adult education, and POWER Youth remain fully operational. Contact information includes www.nashville.gov/mac and phone number 615-862-8860.

MAC has Program Adjustments Starting November 3, 2025

Due to the federal government shutdown, assistance for utilities, rent, mortgage, and other emergency services will change.

Utility Assistance Requirements:
To qualify for help with utility payments, applicants must meet the THDA Crisis Criteria:

  • Households with disabled members
  • Households with children age 5 or younger
  • Veterans
  • Adults over age 60
  • Applicants who are already disconnected

All other applicants will be placed on a waiting list until funding is restored or new guidance is provided.

Other Services:
MAC’s programs for rent, mortgage, deposits, and other emergencies will continue as long as funding is available. Programs such as Head Start, Early Head Start, adult education classes, and POWER Youth remain fully operational.

For more information, visit www.nashville.gov/mac or call 615-862-8860.

Logo for Forgotten Child Fund featuring a stylized hand holding a decorated Christmas tree with a bright star on top and colorful wrapped gifts at its base. The words “Forgotten Child Fund” curve above the image in gold lettering.

Apply for Assistance – Now Through December 10

Families can apply for holiday assistance Monday–Friday, 10 AM to 2 PM at:
📍 5637 Hwy 58, Chattanooga, TN

Prefer to apply online? Visit:
💻 forgottenchildfund.org

Help make this Christmas special for every child.

Special Announcement for Hardin County Families

Hardin County Schools is offering local food assistance for families with children who currently qualify for SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits.

Starting Wednesday, November 5, parents or guardians can visit the main office at their child’s school to receive food support.

Want to help?
Community members can donate to support this initiative by mailing contributions to:
Hardin County Ministerial Association
PO Box 595
Savannah, TN 38372
(Please designate funds for “student food support”)

Thank you to everyone who has already donated or plans to contribute to this important cause.

For more details, contact Hardin County Schools at (731) 925-3943.

A Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) bus parked on a city street in front of the Stax Museum of American Soul Music. The bus is white with green stripes and displays the MATA logo. A banner on the side reads “Free Ride Means You Save Green.” Overlaid text at the top of the image says: “MEMPHIS, Tenn. MATA is testing out 90 days of free service. The zero fare pilot program will launch on November 16, offering free service to all passengers.”

Free MATA Rides for 90 Days

Starting November 16, 2025, all Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) services will bMA

No passes or fare cards are required—just hop on and ride! The program runs through February 2026 and aims to improve access and opportunity for Memphis residents.

Learn more: MATA Free Ride Program Details

SCAM ALERT

A public service announcement graphic from the Tennessee Department of Human Services. The left side has text that reads: “Receive a call asking for your EBT card number or PIN? HANG UP!” in bold letters, with “HANG UP!” highlighted in red. At the bottom, there is a blue banner with the website link: “TN.Gov/HumanServices/Need-Help-/TDHS-Fraud.html.” On the right side, a person is holding a baby and a phone inside a home setting.

Protect Your SNAP and Families First Benefits

Have you received a call, text, or email asking for your EBT PIN? Do NOT share your personal information. Scammers are pretending to be the Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS) to steal benefits.

What to Do:

  • If you’re unsure about a message, do not respond.
  • Check your case through the One DHS Customer Portal or review transactions using the ebtEDGE Cardholder Portal or Mobile App.
  • Use ebtEDGE tools to freeze your account if you suspect fraud.

Learn more at TDHS Fraud Prevention or log in at www.ebtEDGE.com