UPDATE: Food banks across the Lowcountry are bracing for an overwhelming surge in demand as families prepare for imminent cuts to SNAP benefits. Agencies report a staggering 20-30% increase in families seeking assistance, just days before the looming deadline on Saturday.
At the Glorious Church of Jesus Christ in Hardeeville, S.C., the food bank director, Alberta Gray, noted, “We’ve never seen it like this before.” With each family averaging three or more members, the small church’s food supplies are dwindling. “Tables are only half full, and our surplus pantry won’t cover the additional needs,” Gray lamented.
She emphasized the urgency: “We had people out at six this morning because they know their benefits will be cut off soon.” With the high demand already evident, Gray fears they will run out of food before the week is over.
Second Helpings, the main provider of food donations, serves 55 pantries, soup kitchens, and social services across Beaufort, Jasper, and Hampton counties. Their executive director, Amy Colin, reported that several agencies have seen their clientele double in just the last week, highlighting the alarming trend. “When funding for SNAP and other federal benefits decreases, people are forced to go without food,” Colin stated.
Community support is critical as Second Helpings relies heavily on local grocery store donations, which are also dwindling due to the anticipated cuts. Colin stressed the importance of collective action, urging local businesses and communities to initiate food drives. “There’s only so much income at the end of the month,” she said. “People are worried about how they will feed their families.”
In light of the urgent situation, Second Helpings is actively encouraging residents to contribute financially or organize small food drives to help alleviate the crisis. With the cut-off date rapidly approaching, every effort counts.
The looming SNAP deadline is not just a statistic; it represents real families struggling to make ends meet. Those wishing to help can donate directly to Second Helpings or local agencies. The community’s response could make a significant impact as they work to support their neighbors in need during this critical time.
For more details on how to contribute, click or tap here to visit the Second Helpings website.
