Lincoln officials work with food organizations to keep people fed during SNAP pause

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – Local officials are stepping up during a time of uncertainty for people who depend on SNAP.

Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird joined the Food Bank of Lincoln on Tuesday to outline a path forward for families struggling to find food during the government shutdown.

SEE ALSO: Trump administration says SNAP will be partially funded after judges’ rulings

“This is a meaningful time to check in on friends, family and neighbors, especially ones that might be struggling to make ends meet,” Gaylor Baird said. “A simple act of care can make a real difference.”

Although President Donald Trump said SNAP benefits will be partially funded in November, it’s not clear how long it will take for that money to come through or how much money families will receive.

SEE ALSO: Lincoln nonprofit offers hope as government shutdown hits local families

“When that support is disrupted, the impact is immediate and deeply felt across our community,” said Lancaster County Commissioner Sean Flowerday. “It means more families visiting food pantries, more children facing food insecurity, and more strain on organizations already stretched thin.”

Officials with both the city and county are now trying to help people find resources.

The Lincoln/Lancaster County Health Department launched an interactive map to help people find free food nearby.

It shows Little Free Pantry locations, in-person pantries, food distribution sites and free meal locations.

The county commissioners are also putting $250,000 toward emergency funds.

SEE ALSO: ‘We’re all one’: Lincoln mom turns her struggles into hope for others

But while local government is stepping in, officials say this shutdown could last a while, and the community will have to do its part as well.

For every dollar you give to the Food Bank of Lincoln, it can provide around two meals for families in need.

“The Food Bank’s ability to purchase food supplies at a discount means that your donation goes further and helps more people,” Gaylor Baird said. “A financial donation to the food bank is currently the most effective way to help local families in need.”