ST. PAUL — On October 27, Governor Tim Walz announced increased state support for Minnesota food shelves, as SNAP benefits are set to stop on November 1 due to a government shutdown. With food shelves already under strain, the demand for assistance is expected to rise sharply.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the halt in SNAP benefits means many will turn to food pantries for help. Stephanie De La Hoz, from Move For Hunger, shared some tips for those looking to make a difference in their communities. She emphasizes the importance of checking in with local food shelves before collecting items. What you think might be helpful, like boxed mashed potatoes for Thanksgiving, might not align with their current needs.
Other helpful advice includes using strong boxes for donations and avoiding glass containers to prevent breakage. Engaging with the community at local events can boost efforts. Social media can also amplify your message. If you end up with more donations than you can transport, Move For Hunger can help by providing delivery services.
De La Hoz also highlighted a “front porch” food drive model that gained popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic. Organizers can distribute grocery bags for neighbors to fill with donations. Later, volunteers can collect the bags for delivery to local food shelves.
Best practices for donations still stand. Nonperishable items are great, but monetary gifts often stretch further. Food shelves can purchase items like fresh produce and meat at better wholesale prices. So, if you’re planning a grocery run, consider donating cash instead; it maximizes the impact of your contribution.
As the situation evolves, advocates agree that community support is more important than ever. The rising demand and the drive to help neighbors make collective action crucial. With every small effort, we can make a larger impact during challenging times.
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