Supporting Our Neighbors Through A Loss of SNAP Benefits

With the federal government confirming that Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) food stamp benefits won’t be distributed on November 1, many in our community are rightfully worried about what this means for families already struggling to put food on the table, and wondering what they can do to help. 

The answer is becoming more urgent by the day. Like other food pantries, Westminster has already been seeing record numbers of food pantry visits, including a 25% increase in new families who have never accessed our services before this year. The impending reduction in nutrition programs will mean neighbors may have to make hard choices between groceries, rent, and other essentials, and we are anticipating our pantry days to become even busier as we approach the end of the year.

While the challenges ahead are daunting, I am reminded that for over 40 years, Westminster’s community has worked together to address our neighbors’ basic needs. We have always relied on one another to meet that need, and it will take all of us to get through this moment, too.

And when this community comes together, incredible things happen. Volunteers show up early, donors give generously, and neighbors care for one another. That’s what has always kept Westminster strong.

If you’re wondering how - and if - you can make a difference right now, I believe that you can when you lean into community. Here’s how you can do that with Westminster:

Volunteer – Your time is invaluable. Volunteers help us sort donations, guide neighbors through the pantry, and distribute food to families who need it most.

Donate funds – Every dollar directly supports our ability to purchase groceries and essentials as demand continues to rise.

Host a food drive – Rally your workplace, faith community, or friend group to collect pantry staples. Feel free to reach out to us to coordinate, but items needed most include:

• Peanut butter

• Jelly

• Breakfast items (oatmeal, cereal, pancake mix)

• Soup

• Canned tuna/chicken

• Toilet paper

• Canned vegetables

• Canned fruit or fruit cups

• Macaroni & cheese (microwaveable cups and stovetop)

• Pasta & pasta sauce

• Rice and beans

• Bottled water

Every act of generosity, no matter the size, helps us feed more families and sustain hope on the Near Eastside.

Together, we can show up for the children, seniors, and families in our neighborhood to ensure they receive the food they need and deserve.