Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Food Assistance topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Councilors report rising food-bank demand as SNAP benefits face federal cuts
Summary
Councilors and staff described rising demand at local food-distribution points as federal SNAP benefit reductions approach; Councilor Bella reported 119 people at the food pantry last Thursday and said the city is coordinating with Marys Peak Food Share and local donors.
Councilors used the "good of the order" portion of the meeting to discuss recent community events and local food-assistance needs following changes to federal SNAP benefits.
Councilor Bella told colleagues the food pantry served 119 people last Thursday and said demand is growing as SNAP benefits are reduced; she said the city is adding collection barrels and soliciting corporate support while coordinating with Marys Peak Food Share. "Interest and need is only growing," Bella said.
Councilors discussed outreach materials and available printed resources for residents seeking help, and noted a large private donation of holiday food boxes was being distributed across Oregon. Staff and council urged residents to use the city's information resources and the food pantry as safety-net options while the council monitors state- and federal-level developments.
No formal policy was adopted at the meeting; councilors described continuing outreach and coordination with regional food-share organizations.
