Local food banks mobilize to help SNAP recipients hit by government shutdown

The ongoing government shutdown, which began Oct. 1, is impacting a number of governmental programs and services, including the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

With Congress still unable to agree upon an appropriations bill, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) stopped SNAP benefits at the beginning of November. This is the first time benefits have been halted since the anti-hunger program began in 1939.

Across the country, local food banks and other nonprofits have been mobilizing to try and fill the gap for those in need. More than 1 in 8 Americans receive some level of aid from the program, and 39% of the beneficiaries are under the age of 18, according to the USDA.

Dripping Springs Helping Hands is one of the local food banks aiming to help out, according to board president Melissa Reese.

“As news continues to unfold, we know many families in Dripping Springs and throughout Central Texas are feeling anxious about what lies ahead,” Reese said. “First and foremost, we encourage everyone in our community to check in on neighbors who may be affected by the loss of benefits. Make sure those around you are okay and please help connect them with resources such as Helping Hands, where food, care, and support are available to help others during challenging times.”

Last week, two federal judges ruled that the SNAP pause is unlawful. As a result, the Trump administration has said that it will restart benefits, but at a reduced rate, and they warned that there could be a delay of weeks to months for some recipients.

“While we don’t yet know exactly what will happen in the coming days, our team at Dripping Springs Helping Hands, along with our incredible volunteers and community partners, is preparing to meet the increased need if these changes take effect,” Reese said. “We’ve already seen an uptick in food pantry visits and assistance, and we will continue to be here to help.”

Reese also encouraged the community to help keep the shelves stocked at the local food pantry.

“Every donation, whether food, funds, or time, makes a meaningful difference in the lives of our neighbors,” Reese said.

Reese offered a few specific ways people can help:

Donate Food

Helping Hands donation bins are located at the pantry and throughout the community. Their most needed items are listed on their website, and donors can use their Amazon Wish List to send items directly to Helping Hands.

Donate Funds

Financial gifts allow Helping Hands to purchase the most urgently needed items to have a balanced distribution.

Host a Food or Fund Drive

Helping Hands can offer guidance in setting up a food collection or virtual PayPal drive, so that neighbors, friends, and coworkers can join in during this season of giving.

Empty Bowls Project

Reese also extended a big thanks to everyone in the community who participated in the 28th Annual Empty Bowls Project on Nov. 2, which is the year’s biggest fundraiser for Dripping Springs Helping Hands.

“It was a wonderful and delicious day filled with fellowship and generosity,” Reese said. “We had a great turnout, and it was clear that the Dripping Springs community truly wants to help and stand beside Helping Hands during these uncertain times.”