As federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits pause, Tampa Bay restaurants step up to provide free meals for kids in need. The freeze affects around three million Floridians, including over a million children. Families start experiencing difficulties on Saturday, Nov. 1, without these benefits.
The Florida Department of Children and Families announced November’s SNAP benefits delay until federal funding resumes. October funds are still available. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis emphasized that safeguarding SNAP is a federal responsibility. He shifted attention to U.S. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, leading to some local disapproval.
Amid these challenges, local restaurants come together to assist families. Starting with Gigglewaters in Safety Harbor, many eateries join a community effort to provide free meals. By Monday, Nov. 3, over 24 spots are participating…