UPDATE: Charities in the Lowcountry are facing an unprecedented surge in demand as families brace for significant cuts to SNAP benefits, which could take effect this Saturday. Local agencies report a worrying increase in the number of individuals seeking food assistance, with some seeing a jump of 20-30% in clients just weeks before the deadline.
At the Glorious Church of Jesus Christ in Hardeeville, S.C., the weekly food bank, operational since 2012, is struggling to keep pace with the growing need. Food bank director Alberta Gray stated, “We had people out at six this morning because they know that their benefit is going to be over on Saturday. So, they’re thinking that we’re going to run out. And to be honest with you, chances are you will.”
The church’s pantry is already half-empty, and the community’s response has not been enough to fill the gap. Each family relying on the food bank has an average of three or more members, highlighting the urgent need for resources.
In a broader context, Second Helpings, the primary distributor of food to the church, is also feeling the strain. This organization supplies 55 pantries, soup kitchens, and social services across Beaufort, Jasper, and Hampton counties. Executive director Amy Colin noted, “Several of those agencies have seen the number of people coming for help double in the last week alone.”
As federal assistance decreases, the ripple effect is evident. Colin explained, “There’s only so much income at the end of the month when you’re paying for your roof and your transportation and your medical care. And the thing that people are going without is food.” The alarming rate of increased requests for help puts immense pressure on local charities and food distribution networks.
Community support is crucial at this time. Second Helpings is urging local businesses and residents to organize food drives to help meet the escalating demand. There have already been inquiries from multiple businesses looking to contribute, but the need far exceeds current supply.
As food donations dwindle, local grocery stores, which also depend on SNAP payments, are struggling to provide adequate contributions. This compounding issue raises concerns about how food will be sourced moving forward.
Those wishing to help can make financial donations directly to Second Helpings or other local agencies. Community members are encouraged to act quickly to ensure that families in need do not go hungry as SNAP cuts loom.
With the deadline just days away, the urgency for food assistance and community support has never been greater. As charities scramble to prepare for the anticipated fallout from SNAP benefit reductions, local residents are reminded of the critical role they can play in supporting their neighbors in need.
For more information on how to help or to donate, click or tap here to visit Second Helpings’ website.
