Federal Resources Available to You This Holiday Season

The holidays are a time of celebration, but extra expenses, travel, and added stress can make this time of year feel overwhelming. Here is a collection of federal resources compiled by U.S. Senator Richard J. Durbin’s Office to help you navigate this time of year smoothly.

Travel, Identification & Accessibility

If you’re traveling this season, federal agencies offer guidance on applying for new passports, renewing existing ones, or replacing lost or stolen documents. Travelers with disabilities or medical needs can also access assistance through TSA Cares to help make airport screening more accessible. For frequent travelers, programs like TSA PreCheck and Global Entry may help reduce wait times.

Food & Basic Needs

The holidays can put a strain on our budgets. Federal food assistance programs, including SNAP and senior nutrition programs, are available. SNAP benefits can be used in authorized stores, even while traveling.

The USDA National Hunger Hotline can connect you with nearby food assistance, food pantries, and meal programs. There are also resources for budget-friendly meal planning and opportunities to give back through food donations and drives.

Health & Wellness Support

Taking care of your mental and physical health is especially important during the winter months. Confidential mental health and substance use support is available 24/7 through SAMHSA and the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Additional resources include telehealth services, vaccination information, and affordable health insurance options through Healthcare.gov to help you stay healthy during the holidays and into the new year.

Safety, Scams & Cold Weather Assistance

While online shopping makes our lives easier, it also opens us up to scammers. Double-check a website’s credibility and reviews before inputting any personal information.

For those struggling to keep warm, resources like the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), weatherization assistance, and winter storm preparedness tools can help.

Connectivity, Financial & Family Support

Affordable phone and internet access is available through the FCC’s Lifeline program, helping you stay connected to school, work, and loved ones. Survivors of domestic violence may also qualify for additional protections and services.

Families may find support through programs like Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for children, and seasonal initiatives such as USPS Operation Santa.

Access the Full Federal Resource Guide

For a full list of resources, eligibility details, and direct links, view or download the full guide.