The ongoing government shutdown threatens to pause and delay SNAP benefits for thousands of our neighbors experiencing food insecurity in the Greater Rochester area.
SNAP is our nation’s first line of defense against food insecurity, which impacts more than 160,000 people throughout Foodlink’s 10-county service area. If there is no resolution by Nov. 1, the USDA has indicated there is no funding to allocate SNAP benefits for the month of November.
Disruptions to SNAP negatively impact the economy, public health — and cause a strain on the emergency food system. Foodlink is preparing for a surge in need in the weeks ahead by purchasing and delivering more food it its network of food pantries, meal programs and food distribution partners throughout the region, but we cannot do this work alone.
Here are a few ways to help:
- DONATE
- The best and most effective way to make a difference is through a monetary donation. As a food bank, we can stretch dollars much further than individual donors, resulting in more meals for our neighbors experiencing food insecurity.
- VOLUNTEER
- Foodlink recently opened up additional volunteer shifts — including a new Friday afternoon shift dedicated to packing produce. Our network of food pantries and meal programs are also in need of volunteers. You can find one in your town or neighborhood by visiting our Find Food page.
- FOOD DONATIONS
- Donations of non-perishable goods are accepted at Foodlink during business hours, however we encourage donors to reach out to their local pantry if they are interested in donating groceries or coordinating a small food drive. Donors can also participate in a virtual food drive that specializes in fresh food.
- CHECK OUT HUNGER
- Now through Nov. 29, you can donate to Foodlink while grocery shopping at your local Wegmans. Through our annual Check Out Hunger campaign, customers can round up or make a small donation to support our mission.
