FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — Churches are among various organizations preparing for greater demand at their food banks for the foreseeable future. This comes as the nation braces for SNAP funding to lapse Saturday.
The lack of funds for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance program is a consequence of the federal government’s shutdown, which has been in effect for over four weeks.
Free AME Ministries holds a weekly food pantry in Fresno. Pastor Reverend Dr. Floyd D. Harris Jr. estimates that around 200 people rely on the free distribution for their essential groceries. He said this week, one of the regular recipients broke down to him, fearing he would go hungry.
“He said ‘Rev,’ he said ‘We’re not going to get any food stamps anymore? We’re not going to get any EBT anymore?’ And some water started coming down his eyes, and I said, ‘Brother, I don’t have an answer for you,'” Harris told Action News.
The ministry said it will continue to operate even as SNAP benefits lapse. Harris said while the church works to grow food for the pantry on its own grounds, many of the items they distribute come from donations.
If you are interested in donating to the ministry, Harris said you can contact him directly at 559-790-4277.
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