Relief May Be in Sight for SNAP Recipients
While November SNAP benefits uncertain, neighbors are joining forces to support their community.
The current government shutdown threatens to lapse food assistance benefits via the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) for millions in Massachusetts and across the country this November for the first time since the inception of the program, according to a lawsuit filed by more than half of the nation's states and the District of Columbia against the Department of Agriculture, Office Management and Budget, and the federal government at large.
On Thursday, Massachusetts federal judge Indira Talwani heard the case and, according to reporting by WCBV news, seemed inclined to compel the federal government to release emergency funds – which the suit alleges it has in two separate tranches that could fully fund the program for the month of November.
No verdict has yet been announced, and it's still unclear whether benefits would be paid immediately or if there would be some interruption as funds are sourced and distributed.
In the meantime, residents of Burlington, Massachusetts, are stepping up to support the hundreds of Burlington residents who rely on SNAP to feed their families each month. The Resident Facebook page has seen many posts of residents looking to help out their neighbors. The Buzz has also talked with People Helping People, the nonprofit responsible for administering Burlington's food pantry.
Here are some opportunities to give and receive support in light of SNAP changes, possible suspension due to the government shutdown, and anytime help for Burlington residents in need.
First and foremost, says People Helping People Operations Manager Julianne Kelleher, anyone who receives SNAP benefits but isn't registered with the food pantry should register now by going to the food pantry at 21 Murray Ave. or calling (781) 270-6625. They can act as a coordinating agency to ensure Burlington residents are getting what they need.
Additionally, Project Bread’s statewide FoodSource Hotline (1-800-645-8333) is available to help all Massachusetts residents find free meals, locate emergency food programs, and access other federal nutrition programs. The Hotline will operate extended hours on November 1 and 2 to support individuals impacted by the shutdown.
If you're looking to support your neighbors, here are some opportunities to contribute:
- Direct donation of nonperishable items such as pasta and sauce, mac & cheese, rice, and boxed cereal at People Helping People.
- Grocery gift card drive; drop off at Elite Realty (101 Cambridge St.), DaMore Law, (279 Cambridge St.), or Cambridge Savings Bank (154 Cambridge St.)
- Grocery Buddy program organized by a neighbor for neighbors.
- Food drives are in the works for various times throughout the winter, including one on November 1 and 2 during mass at the St. Margaret's and St. Malachy's Catholic Churches and another at United Church of Christ, Congregational on November 22.
Be on the lookout for more opportunities to support your neighbors in need, and for more updates regarding SNAP access in Massachusetts.
ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP DRIVE TO BENEFIT PEOPLE HELPING PEOPLE - From now through November 30, at least $10 from each new monthly or annual membership to the Burlington Buzz Hive will be donated to support People Helping People. Members get exclusive content, early access to events, and more.
