In Ontario, Oregon, families are feeling the crunch from cuts to SNAP benefits, which provide crucial food assistance. At the Red Apple Marketplace, a new initiative called “Groceries for Good” aims to combat food insecurity in the community.
Jerry Courtney, the produce manager at Red Apple, shares why this mission matters to him. “Children are my heart. They need good food, not junk. Parents can struggle, but kids deserve support,” he says passionately.
Lindsay Grosvenor, a regional manager at the Oregon Food Bank, points out the looming challenges. Although SNAP benefits saw a brief restoration, significant cuts are expected soon due to HR1, a law enacted in July that will take effect in January. “We anticipate a surge in demand at food pantries. It’s a gap we might not be able to fill,” she explains.
The Department of Agriculture is guiding states like Oregon on how to implement these cuts. “Come January, food pantries will feel the pressure,” Grosvenor warns.
The “Groceries for Good” program, designed in partnership with the Oregon Food Bank, helps bridge this gap. When customers shop at Red Apple, they can find a designated table in the produce section with large brown paper bags. For $10, shoppers can buy a bag filled with nutritious items like mac and cheese, pasta, and peanut butter. The cashier sets aside these bags for delivery to families in need.
Tim Peters, the owner of Red Apple, emphasizes the program’s importance. “We’re collaborating with the food bank to relieve some pressure on them and support local families,” he says.
Jerry Courtney reinforces the human aspect of this issue: “These are real people. They need help, and we must listen,” he adds.
As food insecurity rises, initiatives like “Groceries for Good” are vital. According to recent data, food banks across the U.S. reported a 60% increase in demand since the pandemic. This highlights the urgent need for community programs that provide essential support to those struggling to put food on the table.
In this light, local efforts can make a significant difference, reminding us that small actions can lead to big changes in the lives of families facing tough times.
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Donations,Food insecurity,Ontario,Oregon Food Bank,Red Apple Marketplace,SNAP,food stamps
