How Woodburn Food Pantries and Meal Services Are Adapting to Frozen SNAP Benefits

Many people in Marion County, especially in Woodburn, are facing uncertainty as food assistance may stop on November 1 because of the federal government shutdown. This shutdown, which started on October 1, is now one of the longest in U.S. history. It affects around 37,848 households in the county that rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) has warned that if the government doesn’t pass funding legislation by October 31, SNAP payments for November won’t be issued. Recently, they updated their website confirming that benefits will halt on November 1.

Rick Gaupo, CEO of Marion Polk Food Share, expressed deep concern. “SNAP helps families avoid tough choices like between paying rent and buying food. The USDA’s decision not to release emergency funds this time is alarming and is already causing distress at local food pantries,” he said.

Food banks in Marion and Polk counties, including Marion Polk Food Share, are preparing for a surge in demand. In these two counties, 46,392 households receive SNAP, which includes 29,713 children. Each household gets an average of $334 monthly, totaling approximately $15.6 million in benefits—more than the total value of food distributed by Marion Polk Food Share in a year.

While food programs are gearing up, they can’t match the support that SNAP provides. Gaupo added, “We want to help, but we can’t replace what SNAP does.”

Past shutdowns have seen emergency funds released, but this time, the USDA has opted to withhold aid. The agency has contingency funds that could cover 80% of November’s benefits, but they have yet to be released. During the previous shutdowns, emergency SNAP funds were provided to help bridge the gaps.

Though people can still use any remaining EBT balances through November, no new benefits will be distributed until the shutdown ends. This uncertainty has led to increased anxiety. Food Share staff noted that many fear a food shortage and have begun visiting pantries early.

Sam West, a spokesperson for Food Share, said, “People are worried, but we have resources available. They might not be as much as usual, but there will still be food.”

To help ease the tension, the Food Share encourages donations of food and funds. They also suggest that community members advocate for federal action to release emergency SNAP funds.

In Woodburn, local organizations are preparing for similar challenges. The Emmanuel Lutheran Church’s Woodburn Community Meals group serves around 850 free dinners each Wednesday and expects more guests soon. Terri Berkey Gonzalez, the group leader, has launched a “SNAP Gap” initiative. This grassroots campaign invites neighbors, civic groups, and churches to create “sharing tables” filled with food and hygiene products for those in need.

“We want this to be a community effort, to help each other out,” Berkey Gonzalez said. The initiative also includes an online portal for tax-deductible donations to support their weekly meals.

Berkey Gonzalez believes that this moment of potential food insecurity could strengthen community bonds. “This is a chance for people to connect and support one another,” she added. “Together, we can make a difference.”

In light of this situation, it’s crucial to understand the broader impact of government decisions on local communities and the importance of emergency response in times of need. As statistics show, food insecurity affects millions, making it vital to provide ongoing support and assistance where possible. Experts suggest that community-driven initiatives can play a significant role in addressing food shortages, emphasizing that collaboration and compassion are key to overcoming challenging times.

For detailed information on food assistance programs and updates, you can visit the [Oregon Department of Human Services](https://www.oregon.gov/dhs/). It’s essential to stay informed and engaged during these critical times as we work together to support our communities.

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