$10,500 raised for local food pantries during government shutdown
GRAND ISLAND - When the government shut down, central Nebraskans showed up to feed their neighbors.
The Heartland United Way has distributed $10,500 from the Fill the Gap Fund to 14 local food pantries, shelters and backpack programs serving Hall, Hamilton, Howard and Merrick Counties.
In late October, the Heartland United Way acted fast to meet a growing need as SNAP benefits were temporarily paused and some government workers went without pay during the government shutdown. HUW collected funds and encouraged people to drop off nonperishable food items at their local pantry.
Dollars donated were given to Heartland United Way community partners Crossroads Mission Avenue and Hope Harbor to buy fresh foods for the food boxes they distribute. HUW also matched donations to the Fill the Gap Fund up to $10,000 to help smaller food pantries in our 4-county area, which received more than $7,200 in funds.
Even with community support and SNAP benefits restored, many food pantries in our area continue to struggle to meet the need.
Feeding America estimates 14.5% - more than 287,000 people – are food insecure in Nebraska. Half of those people make too much income to qualify for SNAP funding.
“We are so grateful to everyone who stepped up to help neighbors during the shutdown,” said Karen Rathke, President and CPO of Heartland United Way. “Working families, seniors, and children across Hall, Hamilton, Howard, and Merrick Counties feel the impact of food insecurity every day. United is the Way, through donations, volunteering, and local pantry partnerships, we can ensure every family has the opportunity to thrive.”
The Heartland United Way continues to encourage people in Hall, Hamilton, Howard and Merrick Counties to unite in supporting these food sources.
Every can, carton, and dollar make a difference. United is the way we can ensure no family goes without the nourishment they need.
A list of resources can be found at www.heartlandunitedway.org/get-help.