Eureka council approves $15,000 grants for two local food providers amid concerns about SNAP changes

The Eureka City Council on Nov. 18 approved $15,000 funding agreements each for Food for People and Saint Vincent de Paul to support local food-assistance services.

City Manager Slattery told the council the request was prompted by concern that federal changes could reduce SNAP benefits and increase demand on local providers; staff had initially recommended two $7,500 awards but council members proposed larger amounts.

"We will likely be able to find that through some budget," Slattery said during discussion, noting SNAP benefits had been briefly reinstated but other policy shifts remained a concern.

Ashley Deal, treasurer of Food for People, told the council Food for People serves about 21,000 people monthly in the county and described a 40% immediate spike in clients after a recent delay in SNAP benefits. "When the larger safety net waivers, the impact is immediate at our local level," Deal said.

Council member Leslie Castellano moved to authorize the city manager to execute two funding agreements of $15,000 each; the motion was seconded and passed on a 5–0 vote.

Supporters at the meeting said the awards are intended to shore up local capacity while state and federal funding remain uncertain. Volunteer and nonprofit speakers described rising need and service strain, with one stakeholder saying grassroots efforts and partnerships had mitigated immediate shortages but that more sustained support will be required.

The council directed staff to finalize agreements and identify budget sources for the additional funds. No separate county match was identified at the time of the vote.

The council took the action as part of its consent and discussion agenda; the measure carried unanimously.