NEIGHBORS HELPING NEIGHBORS THROUGH A TIME OF NEED The State of Oregon has notified local governments that Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits may not be issued in November due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. SNAP currently provides monthly food assistance to more than 757,000 Oregonians, including many households across the South Coast. With benefits expected to stop after October 31, there is a growing concern about increased food insecurity in our region. Food insecurity is already a challenge in many rural and coastal communities, where access to grocery stores, food pantries, and transportation options can be limited. A sudden disruption in SNAP benefits could place many of our neighbors—including seniors, children, and working families—in a difficult position very quickly. While state agencies continue to monitor the situation and await federal action, local communities are preparing for the possibility of rising food needs in the weeks ahead. In times like these, the South Coast has a long history of coming together to support one another. Local food banks and meal programs may see a significant increase in demand, and community support will play an important role in ensuring that no one in our region goes hungry. Residents who are able are encouraged to consider donating nonperishable food items, making financial contributions, or volunteering with local food-security organizations. Community members who wish to donate may consider supporting South Coast Food Share, The Salvation Army – Coos Bay Corps, the Coos Food Cupboard, or the Coos Bay Public Library’s community food initiatives listed below: South Coast Food Share: https://www.orcca.us/scfs Salvation Army – Coos Bay Corps: https://coosbay.salvationarmy.org Coos Food Cupboard: https://www.episcopalcoosbay.org/coos-food-cupboard In addition, The BEET Food System Collaborative helps support the Coos Bay Public Library’s Community Fridge by recruiting volunteers and awarding grants that allow the library to purchase food. The BEET also accepts direct donations at https://thebeetfsc.org The library accepts donations to support the fridge as well. The library is also currently hosting a food and supply drive for ARK’s Drop-in Center for Teens and is accepting nonperishable food and hygiene items. Details can be found at: • ARK Project Drive: https://www.coosbaylibrary.org/event/ark-project-food-drive-16131 SNAP recipients who may be affected are encouraged to stay informed and plan ahead where possible, including monitoring EBT balances and signing up for benefit notifications through the ONE Online system at https://benefits.oregon.gov . General updates will continue to be posted by the Oregon Department of Human Services at https://odhs.oregon.gov, and assistance locating food resources or community services is also available through 211 at https://www.211info.org We appreciate the generosity, compassion, and community spirit that define our region. By supporting local food resources now, we can help ensure that our neighbors have what they need while longer-term solutions are determined.