Good morning, Wilmington.

Cathy Kanefsky, CEO of the Food Bank of Delaware, says the federal government shutdown is reducing SNAP benefits and leaving thousands of families without food support.

She added that the food bank and its volunteers are providing emergency aid and donations through programs like Stuff the Bus—each dollar donated turning into three meals for those in need.

Wilmington Senior Center laid off five of its 15 workers and will close on Fridays because of budget shortfalls.

The center, which has served older residents since 1956, now faces an annual funding gap of over $400,000 despite receiving about $200,000 from the state (staff cuts happened earlier this month).

On Oct 31, the family of a beloved Wilmington educator donated $10,000 from the Maurice Pritchett Education Fund to his namesake school to cover basic supplies amid high need—while the YMCA of Delaware launched its annual Canned Food and Clothing Drive from Nov 3 to 21 to help families facing strained SNAP benefits and a Concord High teacher earned a $3,760 STEM grant for adaptive equipment projects.

November brings the start of registration for Delaware public schools, with 19 districts and 24 charter schools accepting applications.

Parents must fill out the state’s online form and provide documents like a birth certificate, proof of residency, and health records—schools may also approve early kindergarten entry under certain conditions.

Gov. Matt Meyer urged congressional leaders to extend ACA tax credits before they expire next month—warning that premiums for Delawareans could soar if the credits are not renewed.

On November 3, the Delaware Department of Correction launched its Friends and Family Handbook to help families and friends navigate the correctional system—aiming to simplify access to key information.

The 20-page guide—available in English and Spanish—details how to visit loved ones, deposit funds, and use reentry services.

Today, Wilmington Mayor John Carney said he is developing a two-month plan to address the surge in homelessness at Christina Park by adding restrooms, clean water, security, and a dining area — he blamed programs from other cities, including Philadelphia's Stranded Traveler Assistance, for the influx.

Full Moon Mocktail Mixer

6-7:30 p.m. — Bellefonte Cafe — Cost includes one mocktail — A cozy evening under the full moon with handcrafted mocktails and community conversation.

An Evening with Garrison Keillor

8-9:30 p.m. — The Grand Opera House — Cost info not specified — Experience a delightful evening with Garrison Keillor and special guest Rich Dworsky.

Delaware Blue Coats vs. Westchester Knicks

1-2:30 p.m. — Chase Fieldhouse — Tickets available — Witness an exciting basketball showdown between local favorites and rival teams.

Thankful for Our Members

5-7 p.m. — Delaware Museum of Nature & Science — Free entry — Celebrate membership with refreshments and an evening of exploration.

Delaware Blue Coats vs. Greensboro Storm

7-8:30 p.m. — Chase Fieldhouse — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a thrilling basketball matchup as the Delaware Blue Coats take on the Greensboro Storm.

Wilmington Festival of Trees

12-4 p.m. — Brantwyn — $25 — Explore beautifully decorated trees, wreaths, and a festive marketplace filled with goodies and raffles.

TEA 101 In-Person Class

10 a.m. - 3 p.m. — Fieldstone Golf Club — Registration fee required — Dive into a two-day intensive on the history and types of tea with expert Karen Donnelly.

Kids Fall Festival

2-4 p.m. — Kirkwood Public Library — Free entry — A delightful day of fun and creativity for kids hosted by Pushing Through Inc.

Trash ’em, Don’t Stash ’em

2-4 p.m. — Wilmington Recovery Cafe — Free entry — Safely dispose of expired medications and support community health efforts.

Hispanic Scholarship Gala Ceremony 2025

7-11 p.m. — Riverfront Events — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate Hispanic education by awarding scholarships to deserving students in the community.