MOBILE, Ala. – As the government shutdown stretches into its third week, many federal workers are feeling the pinch as their paychecks are delayed. Local non-profits like Prodisee Pantry and Feeding the Gulf Coast are stepping up to provide food support for affected families.
Prodisee Pantry recently expanded its services to include federal workers in Mobile and Baldwin County, launching special distributions last week. Executive Director Deann Servos shared that they’ve already assisted 16 families in just two weeks.
With empathy, Servos noted, “Families receive not only healthy food but also emotional support. This is a stressful time for them.”
Feeding the Gulf Coast, which operates across 24 counties in South Alabama, South Mississippi, and the Florida panhandle, is also responding to the growing need. President and CEO Michael Ledger reported that they have supported between 500 to 1,000 individuals since the shutdown began and are preparing for even more requests. “We’re hearing that over 2,500 people need our help,” he stated.
Both organizations are facing challenges like securing volunteers and funding due to rising food costs. For example, it costs Prodisee Pantry around $45 to provide a family with a cart full of essentials—including dairy, meat, and even baby supplies like diapers and formula. “Every additional family that seeks help increases our expenses,” Servos explained.
To keep these vital services running, both non-profits rely heavily on donations and grant funding. Despite financial pressures, they remain committed to helping families in need. “We want to ease their burden so they can focus on taking care of their loved ones,” Ledger affirmed.
According to Feeding America, food insecurity affects 1 in 9 people in the United States. During government shutdowns, this number can rise significantly as more families find themselves in need.
For those looking to support these initiatives, you can learn more about Feeding the Gulf Coast here and Prodisee Pantry here.
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