JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — During their meeting on Wednesday evening, Jacksonville City Council members made a significant move to combat hunger within the community.

The council members reached a unanimous decision to direct $200,000 to Feeding Northeast Florida. This organization, which serves Duval and nearby counties, will utilize the funds to acquire and distribute food to those who are struggling the most.

In Duval County, food insecurity affects one in six families, prompting city officials to acknowledge the widespread impact of the government shutdown. Vulnerable groups, including children, seniors, and military families, are particularly affected. The council hopes that this $200,000 contribution will provide essential aid and relief.

“We aim to bridge the gap and eliminate hunger with this initiative,” expressed Councilmember Ken Amaro (R – District 1).

Councilmember Ron Salem (R – At-Large Group 2) sponsored the $200,000 appropriation from the city’s stabilization fund.

“It’s beyond SNAP, and that’s the message I’m trying to send. People are hurting out there and we just need to be aware of it, and hopefully we can help, but we encourage others to give,” said Councilmember Salem. 

“This will help bolster and speed up the process of getting food to those who need it the most,” said a representative with Feeding Northeast Florida at Wednesday’s meeting.  

The organization said the funding will help them purchase thousands of pounds of produce, protein and dry goods. 

“There was an ask, there was an answer that makes sense,” said Councilmember Rory Diamond (R – District 13). 

Council members across the aisle came together for a bill they say is for the people.

“My purpose for being here is to support people,” said Councilmember Tyrona Clark-Murray (D – District 9). 

“It’s an expansion of food that is needed for this community all over the city,” said Councilmember Ju’Coby Pittman (D – District 10)

But not everyone thought the amount was enough. 

“$200,000 for this city when poor folks are hungry — shame on you,” said Denise Scott, a Jacksonville resident. “That number should at least be $5 million.”

Councilmember Rahman Johnson (D – District 14) agreed that this is just a first step.

His “Snap Gap Relief Act,” which would have provided $2 million in funding, was deferred and will be discussed in committees next week.

“This $200,000, while great, is just a start, and I want the community to know we see them, and what they have to say matters,” said Councilmember Johnson, “I’ll be committed next week to see what that other number is and how we move it forward.”

Feeding Northeast Florida plans to expedite the use of this funding and distribute the food within 7-10 days. The $200,000 is expected to last about two weeks.