NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WZTV) — With thousands of Tennessee families set to lose Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits during the federal government shutdown, one North Nashville pastor says churches must step in to help fill the gap.
Pastor Nicoris Black of Greater St. John Missionary Baptist Church is partnering with Metro Social Services and Second Harvest Food Bank to host a major food and coat distribution event this month aimed at supporting families during a growing food crisis.
On Nov. 8 at 8 a.m., the church will distribute 500 food boxes and winter coats for children, operating on a first-come, first-served basis.
Rising need in Nashville
Metro Social Services reports that food insecurity is rising across Davidson County, with:
- 1 in 10 Nashvillians food insecure
- Half of Nashville workers earning below a living wage
- Middle-class families now experiencing food insecurity
- 7.2% of Davidson County households receiving SNAP benefits
- Roughly 57,000 Tennesseans expected to lose SNAP assistance due to the shutdown
Pastor Black says the crisis is especially visible in North Nashville communities that have historically faced disinvestment…