ALLENTOWN, Pa. (WFMZ) — Come Saturday, more than 40 million Americans may not get essential food assistance through SNAP. The program relies on government funding and the feds are still under a shutdown.
That’s why two local organizations in Allentown partnered with Americold to donate hundreds of boxes of food to families who need it most.
On Wednesday, Americold, Feed the Children and the Salvation Army teamed up in Allentown to donate hundreds of boxes of food and personal care supplies to local families.
“Each family is getting three different boxes that include all kinds of canned food and other food essentials and then also a lot of bath and body products,” said Rob Chambers, Americold CEO. “People have been lined up all day. We’ve had folks walking in, we’ve had folks driving through. We’ll go through 1,200 boxes of food. It’s about $150,000 worth.”
A line of people wrapped the block as they stocked up on essentials.
“What we’ve seen in terms of food inflation, a higher interest rate environment, less benefit and support from the government. It’s really stretched a lot of people,” Chambers stated.
Those we spoke with in line told us off camera they were grateful for the food giveaway and that every little bit helps.
“I’m aware with what’s going to happen on Saturday in regards to SNAP benefits. The Salvation Army is willing and available to help others out,” said Major Ismael Correa with the Salvation Army Allentown.
Yesterday, Governor Josh Shapiro joined a number of other states in suing the Trump Administration. They’re calling on the administration to use contingency funds to pay for November SNAP benefits.