With social safety nets cut, Americans in rural areas look for ways to cope

By Emily Russell

Published November 6, 2025 at 4:45 AM EST

Millions of Americans rely on federal subsidies and programs to make ends meet. But the shutdown and other cuts have them looking elsewhere for help. Here's how residents in rural New York are coping.

Tags

NPR

Emily Russell

WRVO is at a critical moment.

Recent cuts to federal funding are challenging our mission to serve central and upstate New York with trusted journalism, vital local coverage, and the diverse programming that informs and connects our communities. This is the moment to join our community of supporters and help keep journalists on the ground, asking hard questions that matter to our region.

Stand with public media and make your gift today—not just for yourself, but for all who depend on WRVO as a trusted resource and civic cornerstone in central and upstate New York.

Support WRVO now