Local Foodbanks Preparing for Demand with SNAP Shutdown

As the government shutdown drags on, it's causing uncertainty across Arizona. The growing crisis will affect SNAP benefits at the start of November if the impasse doesn't end. Nearly half a million Arizona households could be left without food assistance.

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, is a federally funded program that provides food benefits to low-income families to purchase food. Arizona's program is intended to help combat food insecurity.

READ: Local Electric Cooperative Offers Support During Budget Standoff

The budget standoff in Washington, D.C., continues, creating an uncertain future for programs like SNAP. Local charities across Arizona are stepping in to help fill the gap until the mess can be unraveled.

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Who’s stepping up in Cochise County?

The Willcox Community Food Pantry, according to KGUN-9 News in Tucson, is seeing its longest lines in decades. The organization provided food to more than 300 families this week alone. Unfortunately, donations have fallen to a 20-year low despite the increased need. Right now, volunteers are organizing food drives and soliciting donations from local businesses to meet the community's needs.

In Sierra Vista, the Salvation Army is asking the public for help keeping up with demand for non-perishable food to keep their shelves stocked for families in need.

READ: How the Government Shutdown Affects Arizona's Food Assistance Programs 

What are the Best Non-Perishable Foods to Donate to a Food Pantry

If you can donate to a food pantry, a little goes a long way. Try donating shelf-stable, nutritious, easy-to-prepare non-perishable foods. Here's a list of items food pantries are always happy to accept:

• Canned Beans: High in protein and fiber.

• Canned Chicken: Versatile and high in protein, canned chicken can be added to soups, casseroles, or sandwiches. 

• Canned Fish: Canned tuna and salmon are a good source of vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids. 

• Peanut Butter: This is the ultimate "fast food". Loved by both kids and adults, peanut butter is packed with protein, and you don't have to be a chef to prepare it. 

• Pasta and Pasta Sauce: Easy to make and very filling, they are items to add to your donation box. 

It's always good to check with our local food banks and shop or donate based on what they can use right now. If you're donating from your own pantry, check the expiration dates; if they've passed, just throw them away so you don't create more work for the folks at the food pantries.