TULSA, Okla. — For many Oklahoma families, visiting a food bank is no longer just a last resort in a crisis. It has become a regular part of how they put food on the table when money and benefits run short.
The shift comes as debate continues over SNAP benefits after Gov. Kevin Stitt said there should be more stigma around receiving benefits and suggested more people turn to local food banks and charities for help. In an interview with Stateline, Stitt said food banks, churches and local charities could better help meet the needs of Oklahomans facing food insecurity.
But advocates and food bank leaders say those organizations were never meant to replace federal food assistance, especially as need continues to grow. Instead, they say food banks have become a critical safety net for thousands of families trying to stretch their food supply when SNAP benefits run out…