Wooster Neighbors Unite to Combat Hunger During SNAP Shutdown
When federal food assistance was paused, residents and volunteers in Wooster gathered downtown to share donations and make sure families in need did not go hungry. Food insecurity remains a serious issue in the community, with over 10% of residents living at or below the poverty line.
Due to the government shutdown, approximately 1.4 million Ohioans, including many in Wooster, did not receive their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits in November. In response, the Wooster Advocacy Group hosted a food drive on Sunday, November to help cover the "SNAP gap" for local families.
Community Food Drive: Give and Take
About 20 volunteers joined numerous donors and around 125 residents in need at the Wooster square pavilion. The event operated as a food “give and take,” welcoming all to take what they needed and contribute what they could.
- Donations ranged from mac and cheese, farm-fresh eggs, potatoes, and cereal, to canned goods and olive oil.
- Some contributors also provided gift cards to local grocery stores.
“I am so thankful to everyone who donated food or their time to make this event successful,” said Tyler Owens, one of the event coordinators.
Additional Support and Information
A separate table provided information on how to donate to or receive help from local organizations that offer food assistance.
“Community is what makes Wooster great," said Bonnie Nair, a key organizer. "We have so many generous individuals, ready to help at a moment’s notice."
Author’s summary: Wooster's residents responded quickly and generously to the SNAP shutdown, demonstrating the power of community in addressing local hunger through shared resources and volunteer efforts.