Urgent: NC’s Largest Food Bank Warns of Severe Consequences from Potential SNAP Cuts

RALEIGH, N.C. — In North Carolina, about 1.4 million people depend on SNAP, the federal program that helps with food costs. These include many children, seniors, and those with disabilities.

The Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina serves over 30 counties. They are concerned about new cuts to SNAP from a recent federal spending bill. These cuts come at a time when food prices are already rising. Other essential programs are also facing budget cuts.

Amy Beros, the President and CEO of the Food Bank, highlights the serious impact these changes could have. “Along with the cuts to SNAP, we’re losing crucial funding for school meals and Medicaid. This will hurt our community’s health deeply,” she says.

Historically, funding issues have arisen in the past, but the current situation is particularly alarming. For every meal that the Food Bank offers, SNAP provides nine meals. If these cuts go through, the Food Bank may struggle to meet the needs of those relying on these meals.

Beros warns that when the cuts are implemented in 2026, it will create a dire situation. “There will be a gap that we won’t be able to fill,” she adds, emphasizing the urgency of addressing these funding cuts.

A recent survey found that nearly 70% of people believe that food security is a growing issue in their communities. As experts note, food assistance programs like SNAP are vital. A healthy society needs access to nutritious food.

The combination of rising food costs and reduced assistance is a recipe for disaster. The implications could be long-lasting, affecting not just individuals but the broader community.

For more details on SNAP and its benefits, check out this link.

Source link

Priority, 17526616