In the United States, due to the failure of Congress to reach an agreement, the funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as food stamps, designed to support low-income families, ran out on Saturday, November 1st. In order to assist families in need, Americans have taken the initiative online and within their communities.
At the last minute, a federal judge ruled to direct the Trump administration to use emergency funds to cover the food stamps for November. The president has instructed officials to find a legal way to fund the food stamps. However, even with immediate access to emergency federal funds, the interruption of the food stamp program has become a reality due to the time needed for states to distribute the funds.
Nearly 42 million people in the United States rely on food stamps, with the program providing an average of $177 in food assistance to low-income individuals each month. Even during government shutdowns in the past, the food stamp program received funding support, including during President Trump’s first term.
Currently, states, food banks, and non-profit organizations are working to fill the gap left by the federal funding to address the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune has warned, “The situation is going to get really bad very quickly.”
Democratic Senator Ben Ray Lujan of New Mexico stated, “I cannot find words to describe the anxiety of these families, they do not know if they will be able to eat next. “The state of New Mexico, where over one-fifth of the population receives food stamps, is one of the states with the highest rate of food stamp recipients in the country.
In American society, there is a tradition of mutual help and love. Kevin Cassidy, the owner of the Long Island-based KC’s Pizza & Wings chain restaurant, took to Facebook on October 30th, announcing that they would provide free meals for those in need who rely on food stamps and hold Medicaid cards.
“Our community is at the core of KC’s Pizza & Wings. Without the love and support of our family, friends, and neighbors, we would not be where we are today. Let’s work together to ensure that no one goes hungry,” wrote Cassidy.
Cassidy’s post resonated widely, receiving over $1,000 in donations within two days, along with hundreds of inquiries from across the nation on how to offer assistance.
On November 1st, he updated the post saying that the restaurant plans to prepare pre-made meals, collaborate with local food banks, and distribute gift cards from community donations to local grocery stores.
“Everyone faces challenges, and when you help others, you get tenfold in return. Just give, and you shall receive,” Cassidy said.
For families in need of food assistance, it is advised to look out for local charities, restaurants, community organizations, and community assistance posts on social media such as Facebook. Online forums across the United States offer various services to help families who have lost benefits.
According to several community groups seen by Dajiyuan, some neighbors have expressed willingness to be “shopping buddies” to help pay for groceries for those in need. Additionally, community groups have shared various event information including free meals, mutual aid activities, and reposting requests for help.
Food banks are places where many families in need of food relief can seek assistance.
With an increase in the number of people queuing up for food and rising food prices, food banks are under pressure and hope to receive more support from the public.
According to CNN’s report, food banks have stated that cash donations are more helpful than direct food donations because they can utilize funds to buy more food in bulk. For example, in New York City, $1 can provide up to 5 meals for the New York City Food Bank.
Many companies also offer matching donations for their employees towards such organizations.
If citizens are willing to provide food donations, food banks suggest choosing non-perishable foods such as canned chicken, tuna, and salmon, as well as legumes and nut butter. Pasta and rice have a long shelf life as well.
Food banks and local organizations typically accept donations of other items such as hygiene products (sanitary napkins, diapers, wipes, etc.).
Advocates recommend that during government shutdowns, a simple and cost-free way to help is to contact your local elected officials. Elected officials have more resources at their disposal and can provide further assistance.