Austin businesses step in to aid families amid looming SNAP benefit cuts

Local businesses are holding food drives, as millions of Texans brace for the loss of SNAP benefits beginning Nov. 1.

AUSTIN, Texas — As the federal government shutdown continues, millions of Texans are expected to lose access to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits beginning Nov. 1.

In response, several Austin businesses have launched food drives to support local families who may soon face increased food insecurity.

Shops across the city are collecting donations of canned goods and pantry staples, stacking them in preparation for distribution to local food pantries. Among those stepping up is Garbo A Salon, which has set up food collection stations at its locations throughout Austin.

“It’s imperative that everybody, you know, goes in deep and helps out,” said Daphne Harrington, Director of Operations at Garbo A Salon. “We saw the support when the floods happened, where everybody really stepped up and just dug in and gave back. And I think that now is the time to do that.”

For some, the cause hits close to home. Stylist Ashley Shebesta said she once relied on food assistance and now feels driven to help.

“I was a young, 19 year old single mom, and I relied on WIC and SNAP to help feed myself and my baby,” Shebesta said. “And I don’t know what I would have done without that.”

Other local businesses are also joining the cause. Teressa Coley, owner of Pink Cloud Vape and Smoke Shop, said she felt compelled to act after seeing the potential impact of the benefit cuts. 

“You start to see all of the people, and you watch these videos of how many people will be affected and how it’s just cut off, you know, especially by the holidays, you’re just like, kind of reeling,” Coley said. 

Coley urged fellow business owners and city officials to get involved. 

“When the government fails us, the community steps up,” Coley said. “It’s kind of our job to help out.”

The businesses told KVUE they will continue gathering items until it is no longer needed. Local food banks are set to hold food distributions throughout the next month.