Local pantries struggling to meet demand amid food insecurity

SEE ALSO:

• Local food resources for those in need
• Judges order the Trump administration to use contingency funds for SNAP payments during the shutdown

JACKSON, Tenn. — Expected SNAP cuts have put a strain on local food pantries.

As thousands of Tennesseans rely on SNAP benefits, many are searching for other means of nutrition assistance.

Local food pantries are stepping up to feed the community, but with a high demand, many organizations face the possibility of running out of supplies soon.

Deborah Shaw, Director of Voices of Savannah, says they are already in a tough spot.

“We have depleted our emergency food supply,” Shaw said. “We utilize this food on the weekend to bridge to our Monday distributions.”

Friday, Voices of Savannah announced there is no emergency food available, effective immediately. This program helped individuals in need during emergency situations such as fires.

Shaw says residents are worried.

“People are very fearful. You know, yesterday, I had over 25 calls about food insecurity, will we have enough food to give them on Monday,” said Shaw.

Voices of Savannah says they are currently working on a plan to meet the increased need in the community.

“The need is huge. Last month, we served over 630 individuals, and as of today, we’ve served 698,” Shaw said.

Food banks across the region are in need of food and monetary donations, as well as volunteers to continue serving the community.

Click here to learn more about Voices of Savannah. To donate or volunteer, call (731) 438-5166 or (931) 213-0421.

For more local news, click here.