Local food banks rejoice following SNAP reinstatement, government remains shut down
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- "For every meal that a food bank serves, SNAP serves nine meals," CEO of Second Harvest Community Food Bank Chad Higdon said.
After two judges ordered the Trump administration to use contingency funds for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) payments Friday, local food banks are rejoicing in the fact that individuals can now be provided food assistance during November.
An estimated one in eight St. Joseph residents relies on SNAP, which helps low-income families purchase food.
With the Government still shut down, SNAP users were worried about a lack of access to benefits, leaving individuals to rely on food pantries and other resources.
Higdon made mention that families were preparing for the worst.
"The phone has been ringing nonstop, and that ranges from families who have utilized our services in the past, some haven't," Higdon said. "Really just seeing what can be done as everybody kind of anticipates higher demand and more individuals seeking out food resources."
One local pantry manager at Patee Park Baptist Church Pantry, Cheryl Meeks, said they saw a lot of upset and concerned individuals.
"(The goal) To be able to survive and get through it and feed everybody that's coming in," Meeks said. "It may not be the same as what they always get, but I believe we'll have enough to go around."
Meeks added that food delivered from places like Chick-fil-A, Red Lobster and Natural Grocers was a huge help.
Higdon said he's seen a "tremendous call to action" from groups looking to help bring in more food for pantries as well as volunteers stepping up.
Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe announced Wednesday an "order of $5 million distribution to Missouri food banks using Temporary Assistance for Needy Families funding."
"Whether it's a government shutdown, it's a national pandemic, natural disaster... That's why our network exists," Higdon said. "It just helps families where we are."
