Traditional Food Pantries See Surge in Demand Amid SNAP Cuts

Sun Nov 02 2025 05:24:53 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The ongoing government shutdown has led to abrupt cuts in SNAP benefits, resulting in overwhelming turnout at food pantries across the nation. Many families are grappling with food insecurity as they seek assistance during this challenging time.

As the government shutdown continues, food pantries across the country are witnessing a sharp increase in demand for assistance due to sudden cuts in SNAP benefits. Residents, including those who typically rely on these programs, are forming long lines, with some stating that without these services, they would struggle to feed their families. Community leaders are calling for better understanding from lawmakers regarding food insecurity issues.

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — In the wake of the federal government shutdown, food pantries across the United States have seen an alarming rise in demand as many communities suffer from abrupt cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). On Saturday, long lines formed at food pantries and drive-through events, revealing the growing need for food assistance among families nationwide.

In the Bronx, New York, the World of Life Christian Fellowship International pantry reported an increase of about 200 visitors compared to usual turnout. Many attendees waited in packed lines, bundled in winter attire, starting as early as 4 a.m. to receive essentials including fruits, vegetables, milk, and bread from the pantry.

Mary Martin, a volunteer, shared that she relies on the pantry herself to supplement her monthly SNAP benefits, which she uses to support her family, including her adult sons and their children. She expressed deep concern over the pressures of providing for her family without the pantry's support.

As stories from individuals like Martin emerge, community leaders stress that access to food is a crisis affecting people from all walks of life. The Rev. John Udo-Okon pointed out that the pantry now serves a broader range of people who are typically less vulnerable, as the financial strain on families spreads wide.

In Georgia, Must Ministries handed out food to an unexpected 1,000 people in drive-through lanes, double the usual crowd for similar events. Families expressed anxiety about adequate provisions for Thanksgiving and the forthcoming holiday season amidst these cuts.

James Jackson, 74, a SNAP recipient who attended a food giveaway in Kentucky, articulated the frustration many Americans feel as a result of decisions made in Washington. He called on lawmakers to understand the realities of poverty by connecting directly with those experiencing food insecurity.

Across various locations, from Connecticut to Kentucky, food pantries have mobilized additional volunteers to accommodate the influx of newcomers, prioritizing empathy and support towards families who may feel shame in seeking help.

As SNAP benefits remain uncertain and the government shutdown drags on, community food resources are being utilized to their fullest extent, showcasing both the resilience and challenges faced by families reliant on food assistance.