Local Food Pantries Prepare for Increased Demand as Federal SNAP Benefits Conclude

The line outside the Downtown Evening Soup Kitchen on Olive Street has been growing. Staff are preparing for even larger crowds in the coming months.

“We’ve noticed a steady rise in demand,” said Steve Werlin, the executive director. He expects a significant increase starting in November, as many families will lose federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.

“In mid-November, we’ll likely see many new faces,” he added.

Other local food programs are experiencing the same trend. Lorrice Grant from Loaves and Fishes New Haven, which collaborates with the soup kitchen, is already seeing more weekend requests for food.

“Just this Saturday, we’ve had requests for extra bags,” Grant noted. She mentioned calls from the Veterans Administration about families needing food assistance.

The situation extends beyond New Haven. Connecticut Foodshare, which provides about half the food for the Downtown Evening Soup Kitchen and supports over 500 food organizations statewide, is also feeling the strain.

“We’ve received 850,000 pounds less food from the federal government as of October of this year,” stated Jason Jakubowski, CEO of Connecticut Foodshare. “At the same time, we’re serving 23% more households.”

This week, Governor Ned Lamont announced $3 million in funding for food assistance in Connecticut. While helpful, advocates argue it’s not nearly enough. Jakubowski emphasized, “This is beneficial, but it won’t solve the problem.” The state currently spends $72 million each month on SNAP benefits, so this new funding only partially addresses the rising need.

Werlin highlighted that organizations in the New Haven area, part of the Coordinated Food Access Network (CFAN), are collaborating to tackle the increased demand. He believes that directly sending funds to families would be a more effective solution.

“Community organizations like DESK aren’t equipped to handle the incoming surge without adequate support,” he said. He encouraged the public to contribute through food and monetary donations and by volunteering at local programs.

The growing reliance on soup kitchens and food pantries reflects a broader trend observed nationwide. According to the American Food Security Survey, food insecurity has risen significantly, affecting millions. Many have never turned to food banks before, illustrating a current economic strain that seems to be deepening.

With the added pressures of inflation and rising living costs, more families may soon find themselves in need. It’s crucial now more than ever for communities to come together and support one another.

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Food & Drink