The Essentials Pantry Helps Families Stretch Budgets When SNAP Benefits Are Paused

Jackie Benson, TNB Business Manager (L), and Christine Wedekind (R), oversee the Essentials Pantry.

On October 1, when the U.S. government shut down, many families at our partner schools experienced a sudden interruption in their SNAP benefits. This unexpected loss of support destabilized many household budgets almost overnight, forcing families to quickly figure out how to put food on the table.

In response to this crisis, The Neighborhood Bridge (TNB) increased outreach regarding the Essentials Pantry. Our Advocates and school liaisons proactively contacted school families and assured them that TNB would help fill the gap. Families were encouraged to request the nonperishable items they needed most from TNB’s Essentials Pantry—such as toothpaste, laundry detergent, toilet paper, and feminine hygiene products. This support enabled families to use their resources to secure the food they needed. Families shared that receiving essential household items from the Essentials Pantry helped them stretch their limited budgets during the crisis.

Many households found this temporary support eased a significant burden, allowing them to focus on securing food until their benefits resumed. This situation highlights TNB’s ability to respond swiftly, compassionately, and effectively during a community-wide emergency.

For more information about the Essentials Pantry, check out this blog post.

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