FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — It’s day one of recipients not receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. ABC News reported on Friday that a Rhode Island federal judge stated the lack of funding could cause irreparable harm, highlighting the fear felt by many Americans scrambling for resources.
Despite the recent ruling, one small grassroots nonprofit is stepping up to help those in need.
“To lose something so critical to your everyday needs, that’s devastating,” said Emily Cameron, an organizer with Share Fresno. When Cameron noticed SNAP benefits were about to run dry, she decided to rally the community.
“What we decided to do is to reach out to local businesses where they have space and to ask them to offer up non-perishable goods, dry goods that are not going to expire, like beans, canned items, and anything that can help our neighbors,” Cameron explained.
One business owner who stepped up to help is Stacey Williams, owner of BB’s Gelateria in Downtown Fresno.
“These families need food. And they don’t want judgment—they don’t need to go to a nonprofit, fill out tons of forms, or jump through hoops just to get food. They need food today, they need it now,” Williams said.
The need is being felt across Central California. The Poverello House reported that they expect clientele to nearly double by the end of next week.
“We are trying to figure out how we can make sure we have enough meals for everybody that comes through here,” stated Raul Chavez.
With the increasing number of clients, the Poverello House emphasized that it will be up to the community to help fill the gap.
In response, Share Fresno is hosting a food giveaway on November 22nd at the Jaswant Singh Khalra Neighborhood Park, located at Clinton & Brawley, starting at 1 p.m.
If you or someone you know is in need, consider attending or supporting these community efforts to help ensure no one goes hungry during this difficult time.
https://abc30.com/post/community-helps-families-need-snap-benefits-run-dry/18101898/
