With federal funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) ending on November 1, many are searching for alternative food sources. At the University of New Mexico (UNM), students can turn to the Lobo Food Pantry for help. This pantry, which is mainly run by students, allows anyone with a UNM ID to pick up up to 10 pounds of food and hygiene items each day.
Lisa Lindquist, Director at UNM’s LoboRESPECT Advocacy Center, emphasizes the importance of the pantry. She notes that many students hesitate to use it, thinking others are more deserving. “That’s a myth. Anyone who needs food should come in,” she reassures.
Established in 2014, the Lobo Food Pantry serves about 100 to 150 students daily. Lindquist points out that SNAP status is not required to access the pantry, making it a vital resource for all students in need.
On a recent visit to the pantry, Rep. Melanie Stansbury discussed the ongoing issues of food insecurity. She argued that addressing hunger goes hand in hand with combatting poverty. Stansbury highlighted that the rising cost of groceries has prompted many to seek help, not just the funding crisis.
Students working at the pantry, like Miles Marshall, note the pantry’s importance: “It’s a great resource for students who need food or self-care items.” Elise Rivera, another student worker, adds that the pantry isn’t just about food. “We also offer feminine hygiene products, toothpaste, laundry detergent, and baby items. There’s something for everyone.”
The recent SNAP crisis marks a significant moment in U.S. history. For the first time, SNAP beneficiaries faced a lapse in funding due to a government shutdown. Originally proposed under President Lyndon B. Johnson’s Great Society initiative, SNAP has been a lifeline for millions. Recent data shows that around 42 million Americans, including 460,000 New Mexicans, rely on it to feed their families. That’s about 21% of the state’s population—the highest percentage nationwide.
In response to this crisis, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham announced state funding of $30 million for New Mexicans. This funding is aimed at supporting individuals during the first ten days of November when SNAP benefits would typically be released.
The UNM Basic Needs Report indicates a troubling trend; 58% of students reported experiencing food insecurity. Alarmingly, almost 40% of students face severe food insecurity. To address these pressing issues, Lujan Grisham has called for a special legislative session to extend state-funded assistance to both SNAP users and others in need.
Stansbury noted, “New Mexico has stepped up to ensure families are fed during vulnerable times. However, this is not a long-term solution. It takes a lot of resources to keep our people fed.” The growing reliance on food pantries underscores an urgent need to address systemic poverty and food access issues in America.
As the situation evolves, communities are being urged to come together and support one another during these challenging times.
