NYC Nonprofits Prepare for Challenges Ahead as SNAP Benefits Face Suspension

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GREENWICH VILLAGE, Manhattan (PIX11) — As the potential cessation of SNAP benefits looms on November 1, nonprofit organizations across New York City are mobilizing to address the growing need for food assistance.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced that, due to a lack of federal funding amidst the ongoing government shutdown, the distribution of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits will be halted at the beginning of the month.

Ken Baker, the culinary director at RETHINK FOOD in Greenwich Village, shared that they currently prepare 30,000 meals weekly to support New Yorkers in need.

With the possibility of SNAP benefits disappearing, Baker explained to PIX 11 News, “We are working to secure additional funding and resources. We’re also increasing our workforce to maximize meal production, extending volunteer opportunities beyond the usual Monday to Friday schedule.”

Cheryl Huber, the Vice President of Food and Benefit Access for the United Way New York City, said, “The lack of SNAP, it’s really hard to explain how that’s going to affect our food pantry system.”

Huber added it’s going to affect small business owners in the five boroughs because “when those benefits don’t go out, it also means that stores don’t get that revenue, so grocery stores, bodegas, corner stores.”

Alicia Maples, who is 60 years old and lives in the Bronx, said she relies on SNAP and already works side jobs to help pay for her groceries.

Maples told PIX 11 News, “I’ve been washing dishes and doing errands for people, just to make it happen.”

Maples had this message for Washington lawmakers who haven’t reached a deal to restart the federal government: “You’re messing with people’s lives, and their stomachs, people got to feed their babies. You got to open your eyes, think reality and think logic, stop playing a chess game with America.”

The Salvation Army serves midday meals to anyone in need and offers a food pantry that clients can access once a month.