Local organizations prepare for increase after November SNAP benefits are temporarily suspended
MISSOURI (KBSI) – More than half a million Missourians could face food insecurity in November if the government shut down continues according to the Missouri Department of Social Services. Although the SNAP program is a state program it runs off of federal funding.
The Missouri Department of Social Services has announced that they have been instructed to temporarily suspend November Supplemental Nutrition Program(SNAP) benefits, following a lapse in federal funding due to the current government shutdown. Without these benefits, many families could face financial strain. Food pantries and food banks are preparing for an increase in demand.
The Missouri SNAP Program provides monthly food assistance to low-income residents to help cover the cost of groceries. According to the Missouri Department of Social Services more than 650, 000 people rely on the program. Heather Collier is the Donor Relations and Communications Manager for the Southeast Missouri Food Bank. She says the SEMO food bank along with partnering agencies are preparing.
“We’re feeding about 80,000 individuals each month and as we head into the holidays, we usually see that number tick up. So that combined with what’s happening with snap and other federal nutrition programs, we definitely expect to see that increased need” says Collier.
Collier shares that food insecurity in Southeast Missouri is already one of the highest in the state, and November and December they usually see an increase because of the holidays. Missouri DSS encourages citizen’s to try to stretch their October benefits.
Collier shares that preparing now and putting food bank in the freezer is also a good idea if that is an option, she shares that because of the expected increase, now is the time to donate either financially or by volunteering.
“You know, one of the things that I know growing up in Southeast Missouri is that we take care of our communities, and we care about the people in our towns and if you are able to give a little extra, this would be a great time to do that” says Collier.
Collier shares they are ready to help anyone in need. Contact the SEMO Food Bank in your county and bring a government ID, and proof of address for assistance.
