Holyoke launches 'No 1 Hungry Holyoke' response as SNAP cuts loom; city readies shelters and aid

Mayor (name not provided) warned that a federal shutdown could withhold SNAP benefits beginning Nov. 1 and described local preparations to fill gaps. He said an estimated 9,600 households in Holyoke — roughly 16,000 people — rely on SNAP and that “this is overwhelmingly made up of seniors and children.” He urged residents to seek help without stigma and said the city is readying partners and programs under an initiative called No 1 Hungry Holyoke.

Alicia Zoller, director of community development, said the city has launched a provider survey on the No 1 Hungry Holyoke webpage to compile a comprehensive listing of local meal providers, including faith-based and private community meals that may not be part of the regional Food Bank network. “We launched a survey last night. As of this morning, we've had 6 responses,” Zoller said, adding that survey responses have prioritized food procurement and that one option under consideration is coordinated bulk purchasing on behalf of providers.

Tim Rivers, director of the Board of Health, described a 10-week municipal food drive running through Dec. 31 with collection points at municipal buildings, polling places and (soon) fire and police stations. Donations will be delivered biweekly to local pantries such as Kate's Kitchen and Margaret's Pantry; contributors may enter a biweekly prize drawing. The Board of Health already expanded collection sites to the library and municipal offices.

Holyoke Public Schools Superintendent Anthony Sotto said schools serve about 3,500 breakfasts and 3,500 lunches daily and can expand meal service; the district maintains a backpack program that provides weekend meals to about 300 students and offers dinners for students in after-school programs.

Lottie Ruhl, director of veterans services, said the veterans office will use Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds to help set up a food bank for veterans and encouraged veterans to contact the office for assistance. Senior services representatives described noon meals, a monthly brown-bag grocery program, and planned expansion of transportation for homebound seniors.

Officials encouraged financial donations to the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts or local groups such as Providence Ministries, which operates a community kitchen and take-home meals. The mayor said city staff are preparing warming-shelter capacity and will execute a contract with Providence Ministries for this winter; another local organization, CHD, has applied for a state grant to expand unsheltered services and a funding decision is expected soon.

City officials also called for volunteers to support partner organizations and faith-based meal programs and asked providers to complete the survey by the posted deadline. The press conference included practical guidance on heating-assistance eligibility administered by Valley Opportunity Council and a warning against using unsafe indoor kerosene or electric heaters.

No formal municipal votes were taken; the city described operational steps already underway and proposals that will require subsequent agreements or council approvals.