Please Stock Up Before November 1st
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Please stock up before November 1st, my friends. As we move into the colder months, supply chains tighten, the weather becomes unpredictable, and prices often rise right before the holidays. Don’t wait until shelves are empty or storms are forecast; take time now to stock up on the essentials your family depends on.
Whether it’s true or not, we may see some civil unrest if families don’t receive their EBT cards by November 1st due to the government shutdown. Please get the groceries you need now before November 1st, when people are hungry, they may get mean. Well, they will indeed get mean. I said it. You get it.
Why It’s Important
- Early Winter Weather: Snow, ice, and storms can disrupt deliveries and travel.
- Holiday Demand: Food, baking goods, and fuel supplies often run low as people shop in bulk.
- Emergency Preparedness: Power outages, flu season, and inflation spikes are all more manageable when you’re prepared in advance.
What to Stock Before November 1st
Pantry Staples:
- Canned goods (soups, beans, vegetables, meats)
- Rice, pasta, and grains
- Baking essentials (flour, sugar, oil, yeast)
- Shelf-stable milk and protein sources
Household Items:
- Toilet paper, paper towels, trash bags
- Cleaning supplies and soap
- Batteries, candles, flashlights
Cold Weather & Emergency Gear:
- Blankets, extra clothing layers
- Space heaters, propane, or firewood
- 72-hour kits and first-aid supplies
Health & Wellness:
- Over-the-counter medicines
- Vitamins and supplements
- Prescription refills
What May Happen If EBT Cards Are Not Distributed
1. Families Could Go Hungry
Millions of Americans depend on EBT to buy groceries through programs like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program). A delay in distribution can leave families unable to purchase food, leading to skipped meals, hunger, and increased reliance on food pantries.
2. Grocery Stores May Be Affected
When EBT benefits are delayed, grocery stores and local markets see a sharp drop in sales. Smaller stores serving low-income neighborhoods may struggle to stay open if their primary customers can’t afford to buy food.
3. Food Banks Could Be Overwhelmed
Food banks and community assistance programs may experience sudden surges in demand. With limited supplies and volunteers, these organizations often can’t meet the increased need.
4. Economic Ripple Effects
EBT spending contributes to the local economy. When benefits aren’t distributed, farmers, truck drivers, warehouse workers, and retailers all feel the impact. This can slow local economies and reduce employment in food-related sectors.
5. Increased Stress and Uncertainty
Families who depend on EBT benefits already face financial challenges. Not receiving their cards or benefits can lead to anxiety, fear, and panic buying if people think the system is breaking down.
6. Public Assistance Systems Could Face Backlogs
Suppose EBT cards are delayed due to technical or administrative issues. In that case, state agencies may become overwhelmed with calls and claims, causing even longer wait times and further delays for everyone else.
Should We Be Prepared for Violence?
It’s understandable to feel uneasy about rising tensions, political divisions, or potential unrest — especially during times of economic stress, election seasons, or government disruptions. While no one wants violence to happen, it’s wise to prepare calmly and practically for the possibility of social instability, just as we prepare for natural disasters or power outages.
1. Understand the Risks Without Living in Fear
Being prepared doesn’t mean expecting chaos; it means staying aware and proactive. Violence can arise from protests, shortages, or desperate situations. The key is to prepare for disruptions while maintaining peace and normalcy in your home.
2. Focus on Practical Safety Preparedness
Here are steps you can take that help in any emergency, not just potential violence:
- Stay informed through trusted local news and emergency alerts.
- Know your community, who you can rely on, and which areas to avoid if tensions rise.
- Secure your home with good locks, outdoor lighting, and communication plans.
- Keep extra supplies on hand (food, water, cash, fuel, and medicine).
- Have an evacuation plan in case you need to leave your area temporarily.
3. Stay Calm and Avoid Spreading Panic
Preparedness should bring peace of mind, not fear. Avoid social media rumors, stay grounded in facts, and check in on neighbors, especially the older family neighbors or those who live alone. A strong community is one of the best protections against panic or violence.
4. What True Preparedness Looks Like
Being ready for possible unrest isn’t about aggression on your part; it’s about resilience.
- Keep your family safe.
- Protect your supplies quietly and discreetly.
- Know when to stay put and when to leave.
- Stay compassionate; even small acts of kindness can reduce tension.
Should We Be Prepared for Civil Unrest?
Civil unrest can happen anywhere; often when people feel frustrated, uncertain, or divided. While most demonstrations are peaceful, some can turn unpredictable. Preparing for civil unrest isn’t about fear or politics; it’s about keeping your family safe and self-reliant if things around you become unstable.
1. Why It’s Wise to Be Prepared
Civil unrest can disrupt daily life even if it’s not happening directly in your neighborhood.
- Transportation routes may close or be unsafe.
- Stores might shut down or run low on essentials.
- Utilities and deliveries could be delayed.
- Law enforcement may be stretched thin.
Preparedness means you can shelter safely at home for a while and make smart decisions if you need to travel or relocate.
2. How to Prepare Calmly and Practically
You don’t need to make drastic changes, just steady, thoughtful steps:
At Home:
- Keep food, water, and basic supplies for at least 2–4 weeks.
- Secure doors, windows, and outdoor areas.
- Make sure everyone knows how to lock up, turn off lights, and stay quiet if unrest happens nearby.
Communication:
- Have a battery-powered radio, charged phones, and a backup power bank.
- Write down significant contact numbers in case your phone dies or the networks go down.
Travel:
- Stay home if protests or disturbances are happening nearby.
- Keep your gas tank at least half full and a go-bag ready in case you must leave quickly.
Your Family:
- Discuss what to do if separated.
- Choose a meeting point and emergency contact outside your area.
3. Mindset Matters Most
Actual preparedness isn’t about panic or expecting the worst; it’s about calm confidence.
- Stay informed through official local alerts, not social media rumors.
- Avoid engaging in confrontations or heated debates in public.
- Support your neighbors, strong communities stay safer and calmer.
4. The Goal: Peace and Stability
Preparing for civil unrest doesn’t mean living in fear; it means being ready so that you don’t have to be afraid.
When your home is supplied, your family has a plan, and you stay aware of your surroundings, you’ll be ready to respond wisely to whatever comes your way.
Civil Unrest Preparedness Checklist
When tensions rise or large-scale protests occur, everyday services can be interrupted. Use this checklist to ensure your family can stay safe, supplied, and informed during uncertain times.
Home Readiness
- Keep at least 2–4 weeks of food and water for your household
- Store extra pet food and supplies
- Secure doors, windows, and garages with sturdy locks
- Install or check outdoor lighting and security cameras
- Keep fire extinguishers, smoke alarms, and carbon monoxide/natural gas alarms working
- Maintain first aid kits in multiple rooms
- Have a safe room or quiet space away from windows
- Close curtains at night to reduce visibility into your home
Communication & Power
- Keep cell phones fully charged and power banks ready
- Have a battery-powered or crank radio for updates
- Write down important phone numbers and addresses
- Know emergency alert channels for your area
- Keep a flashlight and extra batteries in every room
Vehicle & Evacuation
- Always keep your gas tank at least half full; 3/4 is better
- Store a car emergency kit (food, water, blanket, tools)
- Keep maps in case the GPS is unavailable
- Plan two escape routes out of your neighborhood
- Have a go-bag for each family member, ready to grab
Family & Personal Safety
- Set a meeting point if family members get separated
- Designate an out-of-town contact
- Talk through what to do if unrest starts while away from home
- Keep important documents (IDs, insurance, deeds) in one fireproof container
- Maintain a calm and quiet presence, and avoid drawing attention
Financial & Supply Backup
- Keep a small amount of cash (ATMs may be down)
- Stock fuel, medications, and basic tools
- Have extra batteries, matches, and candles
- Keep duplicate keys to your home and vehicles
- Store extra hygiene items (toilet paper, soap, feminine products)
Stay Calm, Stay Aware
- Avoid large crowds or heated discussions
- Rely on trusted news and official updates
- Support your neighbors and community when possible
- Remember: Preparedness brings peace, not panic
Why is Emergency Preparedness Important?
Final Word
If you rely on EBT benefits, stay informed through your state’s Department of Human Services (DHS) or SNAP website. Keep a small emergency supply of nonperishable foods if possible, and plan before the subsequent scheduled distribution. While we can’t control whether violence breaks out in society, we can control how prepared we are to respond with wisdom, calm, and foresight. The best kind of preparedness is rooted in peace, not fear. May God bless this world, Linda
Copyright Images: Costco in San Jose CA/USAdobeStock_291096678_Editorial_Use_Only by By Sundry Photography, Walmart Retail Store AdobeStock_448070320_Editorial_Use_Only By jetcityimage
Linda,
I just read that there are 42 million Americans at risk of losing access to SNAP food stamp benefits as of November 1 due to the prolonged government shutdown. That is more than 1 in 10. I feel certain that many of those may resort to extreme measures when they start feeling the hunger pangs.
Hi Harry, this is exactly why I wrote this post to get people to the stores before November 1st. Most of us are stocked up but I feel strongly this shutdown will go on longer than November. I read 1 in 8 are on SNAP food stamps. Either way that is way too many people being fed by we the tax payers. Yes, we want to help for a short time but not a lifetime or generations. I agree extreme measures will pop up soon. Linda
I agree with Harry about extreme measures. The town I live in is a very generous town but even those with funds are stretched thin at times as are the food banks and other resources.
I have to wonder WHY there are so many on SNAP. I have known a few who were just taking advantage of the system – fully able to work but unwilling as long as there was a handout. I have also known a few who were really desperate – single mothers, recent job losses, etc.
Frankly, we are doing a really poor job of teaching!! When I was in high school, home ec was a requirement for girls (should have been for boys as well) and part of the curriculum was budgeting, food prep, etc. I think that one of the sad parts about no longer teaching these things is that many people on SNAP have no idea how to shop for the most nutritious foods for the least amount of money and to then prepare those foods!
Hi Leanne, you are so right, the schools dropped the ball when they quit teaching Home Economics. When I lived in Southern Utah I would get emails asking me to come and teach church members how to cook from scratch. WAIT! I would say to them, isn’t there anyone in your area that can do this? I’m more than happy to help, but most churches have 300-600 people, of course this can vary. But surely someone knows how to cook, or do they? Possibly not. They didn’t watch grandma or mom cook, they watched them get food stamps and just bought prepared food, possibly. I have told this story before, I was sitting at a table in a church conference setting and I was the oldest one at the table of all young mothers. They were talking about having more kids so they could get more $$$$ every month. I just sat there and listened in shock. They all lived in Section 8 housing as well. They knew how to play the system. One lady said her family of six lived off the government for ten years now, we need to start taking care of ourselves. Interesting conversations that day. Linda
Linda, this is a wise and timely post. Those who aren’t already prepared need to do so now! And while some who are receiving food stamps may be unwilling to work, I suspect they will be looking for jobs as soon as their kids start complaining they’re hungry. But many getting these benefits are simply unable to work and if they aren’t prepared they will get desperate soon. Local food banks will be depleted all too soon. In Kingman, there are some churches that offer free food giveaways on certain days of the week and also they give free meals on other days. But these giveaways come from donations so the supply is erratic. We are a generous community, but I advise “carrying” when you go out in public until the situation gets resolved.
Hi Ray, I sure hope people get to the store and stock up on shortages they have in their pantries. This shutdown could go on for months. I hope not, but none of us know. I have heard food banks are low on food as well. I do believe some, I say some people are unable to work and need the SNAP benefits. Job losses, health issues, etc. It’s the lifelong families that are generations that expect low income Section 8 housing, and SNAP benefits that need to be stopped. Linda
I’ll say what she can’t. Stay armed, head on a swivel as things deteriorate and be prepared to do what must be done to protect you and yours. Don’t be a hero because remember these stores fire employees who get involved so they’ve nothing for you.
Hi Matt, well said, my friend. Be prepared if you go into any store or restaurant. Stay home, stay safe. Linda
Linda, recently our local Smith’s had a case lot sale and I naturally bought a case of flour. When I opened up the five pound bags to put them in long term storage I discovered they were buggy. If it was just me, I’d freeze it to kill the bugs and consider them extra protein but Jane is fussy that way, so 50 lbs of flour went into the trash this morning.
Just curious–anyone know a good use for buggy flour? I considered composting it but figured it would clump up and get gooey when I watered the pile.
Hi Ray, I have been disappointed in some products I have purchased at Smiths lately. I’m seeing expired cans on the shelves, what???? What a shame about the flour, I would trash it as well. I love your statement Jane is fussy, I am too! LOL! I couldn’t roll out my bread dough and see weevils. Funny, not funny. Great comment, Linda
Ray,
I think I would have made tortillas out of that flour and fed them to the wildlife. We have white-tails around here that are starving with almost nothing to eat as a result of our multi-year extreme drouth. They would be scarfing up flour tortillas like candy, bugs or no bugs. HEH!
Hi Harry, hmmm, what a great idea! In my head I’m trying to figure out how many tortillas I could make with 50 pounds of flour! Great idea! That’s a lot of tortillas! LOL! Linda
Thank you so much for this post Linda. Tom and I did a BJs curb side pickup and then Tom went into the grocery store. I was amazed at the number of older adults coming out. I have never seen the parking lot so full on a weekday. I can only hope they are watching the news and getting ready for whatever happens.
Hi Chris, oh my gosh, this is great news, they may understand how important it will be to get food and stay home. Let’s hope others do too! Linda
I worked the streets of Miami during the 1970s, 80s, and 90s. It doesn’t get tougher than that. NEVER did I feel the need to have my weapon (mandatory 24/7 carry by my employer) at the ready when I was running around town off duty. EVER.
Last week I ran to CVS to get some Hall’s….7:30- full dark. I am a big believer in the Byrna launcher CL. Killing a human is a big deal. You really have to know what you are doing to pull that trigger. Byrna lets you defend yourself and run away. Non-letha. NEVER have I EVER felt the need here to have a weapon at the ready where I live now. I’m an old lady, but still.
When I left CVS, I quietly pulled the Byrna out and carried it in a subtle manner. Not my only weapon, but the best choice then. WHAT is the difference? I though long and hard.
The difference is that NOW certain people feel entitled to whatever they want. In their minds they are 100% allowed to do what it takes to get what they want. Thousands have said they are going to just take it. Even people walking out to their car with their grocery cart. Where I live I’m guessing most people already carry. Out here we don’t have looters after hurricanes. Our State law says it is just fine to kill criminals who jeopardize our lives. So, it’s probably ok here, but starting 11-1, I’ll have something at hand as I walk to my car. There are those from the nearby towns that may think it’s easy out here.
RESIFOYCE. Resolve every situation in favor of YOUR continued existence.
IF you are not like me (nobody much is), When you leave the grocery make sure you have another customer with you…OR ask at customer service for an employee to accompany you.
The world has gone crazy.
Hi CAddison, I need to save this statement: RESIFOYCE. Resolve every situation in favor of YOUR continued existence.You know I always love your thoughts, you have lived the life most of us have never seen. I am going to get one of those Byrna launcher CL (not now, they are out of my budget range) great idea, though. The world has indeed gone crazy. We do not go out at night. Ever. But the crazy people are out during the day as well. Linda
Thank you Linda, I wish that everyone could read your valuable post and act upon it!!!
Recently, I found a person who was selling their #10 cans for $30 a box. Bought as many as I could afford. No where to put them yet, but glad to have them.
Yes, I also want one of the Byrna guns when able to afford it.
I became a certified family herbalist a few years ago in case family/others will need help and have no meds. Have encouraged others to also have some colloidal silver on hand, which is a natural antibiotic.
HI Janet, thank you for you kind words, my sweet friend. You found a great deal on those #10 cans! I love hearing you have become a certified herbalist, what a great idea! I hope people understand what is going on right now, regardless of political ideals. We have been giving away millions, actually billions to people who do not qualify for free food and low income housing. Those Byrna guns are more expensive than I realized but if I had the money I would get one. It’s not going to happen with my budget. LOL! Linda
I had just vacuum sealed 12 pounds of different types of beans. We buy them on sale and I vacuum seal them. The same with rice and other dried goods. I also just dehydrated 8-ish pounds of beef jerky (8 pounds before dehydrating). We have canned goods as well. Bought on sale. Since we are on a fixed income, retired, we buy when there’s a good sale on. Have to or starve. LOL
Hi Deborah, I don’t remember in my lifetime except maybe when we put Mark through college having to worry about buying groceries. We have always been frugal but nowadays it’s way past being frugal. I’m calling it shock when I look at the grocery store shelf prices. How in the world are families feeding their families? I was blessed to learn how to make bread to stretch our budget when we had kids at home. P & J was yummy on homemade bread along with home canned peaches. I just bought several cans of beans that were on sale to make all my favorite soups and redo some of my recipes on my blog. We are eating our #10 cans of freeze-dried food because my kids are not going to want it! LOL! I’ll be honest, I crave some fresh celery, freeze-dried celery is fine for casseroles or soups. But I want some fresh celery and hummus, that sounds so good. Life has sure changed. Food prices are out of control. Thanks goodness we love rice and beans. Linda
We love beans and rice as well. Grew up on beans or peas and potatoes, with cornbread. Still love it. There are so many seasonings to make beans taste different, too. I use Better than Bouillon beef or ham in mine, and sometimes add chopped onion. I made some chicken and rice casserole earlier this week, and used fajita seasoning in the rice and on the chicken. Yummy, and it stretches. We also has peas and carrots as a side with it. For the casserole, I use cream of chicken soup and 2 cans of water. Mix that well I’m a bowl and add the rice. Mix well. If you want, you can chop some onions and mix in. Mix in the fajita seasoning to taste. Pour into a casserole dish. I used chicken tenders, it’s what we had, you can use breasts as well. Sprinkle with seasoning on both sides and place on top of rice mixture. Cover with aluminum foil and bake at 350-degree preheated oven for about 45 minutes. Serve with a side to two.
Hi Deborah, I love peas and potatoes with cornbread!!! I always have a few cases of cream of chicken soup, you can make so many things with it. I used to buy organic and I still do if the price is right but then I read where what we think is “organic” may have different standards. So I will stick with rice and beans! LOL!I am going to try your recipe. Leanne sent me a recipe and I’m going to make it next week and post it. We all need inexpensive recipes right now. Mark would love meat and mashed potatoes every night, nope, it’s not happening! Meat prices are ridiculous. He did pick up a cheap ham for $15.00 (spiral marked down $5.00), that will give us several meals! Yay! Linda
Linda, I love a bargain! We will be looking for a ham or a turkey breast for Thanksgiving. We have one for Thanksgiving and the other for Christmas. And I make dressing for both. Hubby loves it! Oh and he likes cranberry, sauce with his ham, too. LOL I fix a small meal for us. The other family members all have their own things to do. Not like when I still had grandparents or mother. Now that they’re gone, family doesn’t get together like before.
Hi Deborah, oh your ideas sound so yummy! I love homemade dressing with cranberry sauce. Okay, mashed potatoes, gravy and everything else! LOL! Life is good. I agree families are not getting together like when you and I grew up. It’s actually quite sad. Everyone lives in other states and the cost to commute is expensive. Linda
Linda, ours all live in Texas. Within 50 miles of us. My Sis-in law and her husband live 5 hours away, but come Twice a year, most years. Fourth of July and Christmas. That’s it. We do cook for them, but the other don’t come for a meal. They come one group at a time, but all don’t come.
Hi Deborah, I understand the younger generation wants to start their own traditions. But, once or twice a year would be nice for everyone to connect. Life has sure changed. We have so many family members moving out of Utah, I would too if I could. But I don’t have an option to do that at my age. I can;t face packing up again. I am decluttering big time, it feels great. Linda
My daughter has just texted both myself and her sister about this very thing. Apparently, social media is ripe with boasters that they will be targeting rich WHITE women to rob at grocery stores. So, although I’m NOT trying to work people up, we need to be AWARE that it IS getting bad. People in richer neighborhoods who think (as my older daughter) that there are few, if any, poorer people, THEY are the targets: Rich neighborhoods. We MUST be aware at all times who is around us and be diligent. Go with someone else if you can (adult, not a child). Make sure the parking lot is NOT bare, but others are around. Park close to doors. Just be observant and careful. You don’t need to panic, but BE AWARE at all times.
Hi Carol, I have heard somethings about stealing from grocery stores but that’s all I have heard. Not sure who will do it, but it’s certainly a possibility. When people get hungry they get mean. Linda