In the wake of the recent delays and reductions in SNAP benefits for more than a million Ohioans, local churches and non-profits are attempting to fill at least some of the gaps left for local families, children, seniors, and others who rely on these benefits to put food on their tables.

For churches looking to get more involved in helping to feed their communities, here are some ideas and best practices (link: see attached document “Church SNAP Food Assistance”). Churches may request funding for new or expanded feeding ministries through the “Feeding Our Neighbors” grants (click here for application) from the General Board of Global Ministries. If your church does not already offer food assistance, the best way forward may be to find out which churches or agencies in your area are feeding people – and then offer to assist with volunteers, donations, or financial support.

For individuals needing assistance, you may call 211 in most communities for a list of agencies offering assistance. In addition, this website (Government shutdown — Work-Life Toolkit) provides links to a number of ways to find assistance with food and other necessities during the government shutdown.

Below is a list of ideas to consider for your church or ministry to help in this time of need.

Food Assistance

• If your church runs a food pantry, consider extending the days/hours or offering emergency distributions as needed.
• If your church has a Blessing Box, try to ensure that it is well-stocked with staple foods.
• Create meal kits made from staples like rice, pasta, and beans, including a recipe for making an easy meal. These can be given away through backpack programs, Blessing Boxes, or food pantries.
• Host community meals (such as soup kitchens or potlucks) that are open to all.
• If your church does not already offer food assistance, consider volunteering at churches that do or with nonprofit organizations like food pantries, food banks, produce giveaways, etc.

Financial Support

• Offer emergency financial aid for groceries, utilities, rent, or transportation. The less people spend on other necessities, the more money they will have for food.
• Provide grocery store gift cards or vouchers so people can purchase their own food.

Support for Families

• Coordinate with schools to identify families in need and what would be most helpful.
• Make and distribute “backpack meals” for children missing meals due to SNAP loss.
• Offer snacks or meals during after-school programming or tutoring sessions.
• Community Outreach
• Organize food drives in your church and community.
• Check in on vulnerable members of your church and community (elderly, disabled, single parents).
• Create a volunteer network to deliver food to shut-ins and immigrants.
• Create a list of food pantries and community meals in your area.
• Other Practical Help
• Offer cooking classes or provide recipes using low-cost ingredients.
• Provide hygiene kits, toiletries, and household essentials.
• Offer job search support, such as assistance with resumes or access to the internet.

If you have questions, email Mariellyn Grace, Director of Mission Engagement, at mgrace@wocumc.org.