As SNAP Steps Down, Food Banks Step Up

By Sarah Newberry
Staff writer
IG: @luv2dance43

When the government couldn’t provide Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits during the 43-day Federal government shutdown, food banks stepped in and have made a difference.

About 42 million people depend on food stamps, and most people in the United States must make it with SNAP benefits. Food banks can help fill the gap.

“We saw a 40% increase in people coming to get services in the last two weeks,” said Angela Penner, the head of the Food Bank of Reno County.

Food insecurity is a significant problem in the United States, and with SNAP benefits being in limbo, it has become a problem and stressor for many people who depend on SNAP.

“The uncertainty is causing a lot of anxiety … I think when people have time to prepare for a change like that, they can make other arrangements,” Penner said.

When people don’t have time to prepare for a sudden change in SNAP benefits, they are caught off guard and aren’t ready for the worst.

“In this situation, it was just suddenly, all of a sudden, you don’t have your benefits, and that’s what many people have relied on,” Penner said.

With SNAP benefits in limbo, many people who relied on them have had to make difficult decisions.

“That’s what many people have relied on to supplement their income to get groceries … How do you decide to use your money or wages to purchase food or pay your rent or utilities?” Penner said.

Although SNAP benefits are in limbo, the community has stepped in to help those in need.

“Just the increased number of people in need and how much food is being donated, it seems like there is more food, a lot of food being donated to help meet the need within the community,” said Kevin Abbot, a volunteer at the Food Bank of Reno County.

The Reno County Food Bank is willing to help the community in need of food, and its volunteers make a significant difference. The Food Bank of Reno County provides a wide range of food.

“They can come in once a month and get commodities, and I’m amazed at the types of things that are available, the amount of meat that is available, and they can get vegetables …” Abbot said.

Despite hardships in the community, the people of Hutchinson and Reno County have made a difference.

“I think the community is pulling together really well. I’m really amazed at the amount of participation we’ve got, I’m happy with that, “ said Duane Dreiling, an employee at the food bank.

The Food Bank of Reno County is a massive help to community members in need. The food bank is an essential part of the community, helping people survive and ensuring they don’t go hungry.

“We exist to make sure that people don’t have to sacrifice food,” Penner said.

Students at HutchCC who depend on food benefits can visit the Food Bank of Reno County, located at 700 North Walnut St. for help. This resource is for anyone who is struggling, especially students who have children or are going hungry without SNAP benefits.

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