Support For Families Facing Food Insecurity During The SNAP Benefits Pause

Nearly 42 million Americans are set to lose access to SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), a federally funded, state-managed program that helps families, veterans, Vermont, lawmakers have approved a temporary $6.3 million budget to fund benefits through part of November.

In a timely social media post, environmental justice and human rights advocate Diamond Spratling highlights that when families lose access to food, it’s part of a larger, trickle-down effect. These families, already in fragile and vulnerable situations, may face additional hardships as they are forced to prioritize household expenses such as rent, utilities, and gas, over food and other necessities.

One thing is certain, and two things are sure: as Black people (and people of color), we know how to survive regardless of the circumstances, especially when resources are limited. We’re resourceful, creative, and innovative in overcoming challenges. Most importantly, we rely on community. That said, here are some resources and tips to help you get support if the pause impacts you.

Food writer Stephanie Gravalese advises that, with SNAP benefits temporarily paused, an effective way to conserve resources is to take stock of your pantry. She recommends planning meals around sale items at your local grocery store and focusing on versatile staples like beans and rice that can be used across many meals. If you still have benefits on your cards, she also suggests seeking out stores that match or double SNAP benefits.

Like Gravalese, Chef Nikkie Miller-Ka suggests using budget-friendly staples such as rice, beans, potatoes, and pasta. These ingredients are affordable and create delicious, flavorful, and >United Way is committed to helping families, and that help starts with calling their hotline: 211. When you call, a trained specialist will listen to your situation, assess your needs, and direct you to the appropriate resources. There are over 1,100 local chapters woven into 95% of U.S. communities, ready to assist as they partner with food banks, community organizations, and local governments to >The Sunday Love Project & Greater Goods, founded by Margaux Murphy, is a free grocery store located in the Kensington area. Shoppers are only asked to bring a photo ID and a bag to haul their groceries.

Residents of Riverdale, New York, can receive fresh, free produce — including pineapples, peppers, cucumbers, and other essentials — every other Friday through the grassroots organization KRVC.

Jasmine Crowe-Houston is the founder of Goodr, an organization that regularly combats food waste by collaborating with businesses, foundations, governments, and sports teams to provide high-quality food to local communities. They host events, such as Pop-Up Grocery Markets, in addition to offering grocery and meal delivery services.

To supplement the SNAP pause for individuals with disabilities, New Disabled South is providing a one-time payment on a first-come, first-served basis. Individuals can receive $100, while households of two or more will get $250.

We have also observed an increase in virtual pantries, such as the Me Little Me Foundation, which supports marginalized BIPOC communities across the country. This initiative was established to combat systemic inequities that have resulted in Black, Brown, and Indigenous communities experiencing the highest food insecurity rates and constrained resources in the U.S., according to founder Elizabeth Ayiku. Individuals seeking help can apply online. After approval, they are asked to provide a grocery list, which will be delivered free of charge by a local store. Ayiku adds that this approach reduces transportation barriers, preserves dignity, and guarantees accessibility for all applicants.

To find a food bank near you, visit: feedingamerica.org/find-your-local-foodbank

To find a local food pantry near you, visit: foodfinder.us

To find a community fridge near you, visit: fridgefinder.app

To find a free little pantry near you, visit: mapping.littlefreepantry.org

While it may be tough and tight right now, we’ll overcome this. Our resilience is our strength, and it, along with community, is what will see us through this challenging time.

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