Charlotte’s nonprofit community is stepping up as the government shutdown strains wallets and suspends key food assistance benefits.
Why it matters: With paychecks halted for federal workers and SNAP benefits slated to be paused Nov. 1, many Charlotte families are struggling to make ends meet.
By the numbers: Roughly 1.4 million North Carolinians, including 600,000 children, receive SNAP benefits, according to Jonathan Kappler, the deputy secretary of external affairs at the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services.
- Nearly 140,000 people rely on SNAP benefits in Mecklenburg County, according to Nourish Up, a nonprofit providing groceries and meals to people across Mecklenburg County.
Driving the news: Several Charlotte-area farmers’ markets are launching special contingency plans in November so residents can still access fresh food.
- Customers can present EBT cards at five markets to receive $50 in SNAP tokens to buy approved foods from local vendors.
- Participating farmers’ markets include Davidson Farmers Market, Matthews Community Farmers Market, South End Farmers Market, Uptown Farmers Market and Charlotte Regional Farmers Market.
State of play: A few local businesses are offering free food to furloughed federal workers who show a valid ID during the shutdown.
- Manolo’s Bakery is offering free cakes at 4405 Central Ave.
- Cuzzo’s Cuisine is providing free meals Tuesday—Thursday at 9601 N Tryon St.
- Ruby Sunshine is serving a free brunch entree (up to $20) Monday—Friday at 332 W Bland St.
Zoom out: If you need food assistance, Charlotte has a list of food pantries and programs ready to feed families. These services could experience high demand, so plan ahead and be patient if availability fluctuates.
- Nourish Up offers free groceries for Mecklenburg County residents.
- Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina provides food assistance to children, seniors, families, and pets through a range of partner agencies. It also offers school-based programs and disaster relief.
- Hearts and Hands Food Pantry supplies personal care items and baby products in addition to groceries by appointment.
- HUG Charlotte provides dog and cat food, diapers, groceries and more.
- Hope Street Food Pantry has rotating grocery pick-up locations in addition to their main pantry, but you’ll need to register in advance.
What’s next: If you’re in a position to give, consider donating food or money to places like Second Harvest or volunteering at a local pantry…