Pleasant Grove food pantry struggles under surge of families in need
The Pleasant Grove Food Pantry in the city of Pleasant Grove has been overwhelmed with people seeking food assistance this week. Despite the federal government's recent decision to reinstate Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, many families continue to struggle, leading to a significant increase in visitors to the food pantry.
On Monday, the food pantry served at least 25 more families than usual, with many being first-time visitors. This trend has continued throughout the week, with three times the usual number of people seeking assistance. The food pantry has been overloaded since the federal government shutdown last month, with the lack of SNAP benefits during this period causing particular hardship for families.
Approximately 3.5 million Texans depend on SNAP benefits each month. Marian, a mother of four, is one such individual who has been severely affected. She usually receives close to $1,000 a month in SNAP benefits to help feed her family. However, with the benefits reinstated at half their usual amount after the shutdown, she is struggling to make ends meet. Volunteer Diana Johnson encourages others to help those in need, understanding the struggles of families like Marian's seeking assistance.
The Pleasant Grove Food Pantry expects to serve even more families this week as people continue to grapple with the potential loss of benefits. Despite the reinstatement of SNAP benefits, many families are still feeling the impact of the government shutdown. The food pantry urges the community to come together and support those in need during this challenging time.
