United Way hosts first meal kit volunteer session

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- With SNAP suspensions potentially coming into play at the beginning of November, United Way kicked off its first Caring Connection volunteer session.

Meal kits were prepared for those who may be potentially impacted by the government shutdown. The kits will include common household items to make meals such as tuna casserole and chicken tacos.

All 40 of the available time slots for the volunteer sessions were filled, requiring the need for a waitlist.

"It's a huge testament to show people want to help their friends and neighbors," United Way President Kylie Strough said. "And they're willing to take action. They are asking 'How can I make a difference' when these issues are caused at levels that aren't directly connected to state government and federal government."

Strough also added that with the second session also at full capacity, there may be a third volunteer session held sometime in November.

"I plan to appeal to our board and ask, 'How do you feel about allocating a few thousand more dollars' to make more meal kits," Strough said. "What we're hearing from agencies is clients are stressed about what's going to happen in November. The reality is kids go to school less days in November, and some people lose out on the work days and hours in because of the holidays."

The second volunteer session will take place from 9 to 11 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 31, at the United Way Agencies located at 118 S. 5th St.