Dear South Central LAMP Community,
As you may already know, the government shutdown is deepening food insecurity for countless Americans—including many who, until recently, were employed and had never needed to visit a food bank. With benefits halted and families unable to access essential assistance, our community is preparing for a sharp rise in need.
Food banks across the country are seeing a surge in visitors, and at South Central LAMP, it’s no different. Our food distributions are meant to complement government benefits, but if those benefits stop on November 1, local food pantries may become the only reliable source of food for many families.
Recognizing this, our community is already mobilizing—sharing information about food banks, parks, and centers that provide hot meals. In some neighborhoods, even restaurants are opening their doors to those in need. Many of us understand the fear of being without work, without a paycheck, or with limited food at home. For families living on fixed or low incomes, saving for emergencies is often impossible. That’s why preventative efforts—like weekly food distributions—serve as critical safety nets for our neighbors.
We’re doing everything we can, but the challenge is immense. One in eight Americans relies on SNAP, and food banks themselves depend on federal funding. As demand increases, resources remain uncertain. As Sari Vatske, CEO of the Central Texas Food Bank, said in an NPR interview: “The helpers need help.”
Diana Z. Pinto
Executive Director