Erin Hill
Gadsden County News Service
Second Harvest of the Big Bend will host an emergency food distribution Thursday, Nov. 6, at Governor’s Square Mall in response to the loss of SNAP benefits affecting thousands of local families during the ongoing federal government shutdown.
The distribution will begin at 4 p.m. and continue while supplies last at 1500 Apalachee Parkway. Each household will receive frozen protein, fresh produce, pantry staples, milk and bread.
According to Second Harvest, more than 96,000 individuals across the Big Bend region have lost access to federal nutrition benefits, leaving many struggling to feed their families.
“This shutdown has created a ripple effect across our community, and the need for emergency food is greater than ever,” said Monique Ellsworth, CEO of Second Harvest of the Big Bend. “We’re grateful for our community partners and volunteers who are stepping up to make sure no one goes hungry.”
The organization is also supporting partner agencies hosting additional food distributions throughout its 16-county service area. Residents can find local distribution sites by visiting fightinghunger.org/find-food.
Second Harvest’s emergency efforts are made possible through donations from individuals and organizations. Those wishing to contribute can visit fightinghunger.org and click “Give Now.”
