SNAP funding uncertainty leaves Central Oregon food banks scrambling to feed families
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) --Uncertainty surrounding federal food assistance is putting pressure on local food banks across Oregon — including Shepherd’s House Ministries in Bend.
The Trump administration announced Monday that it would use all $4.65 billion in contingency funds to cover roughly half of each eligible household’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for the month. The timeline for when those funds will be released remains unclear.
However, the administration also confirmed it would need at least an additional $4 billion to provide full SNAP benefits nationwide.
Over the weekend, tens of millions of Americans went without assistance, forcing many to turn to food banks and shelters for support. At Shepherd’s House Ministries in Bend, staff say they’ve seen a major increase in demand.
“Well, I think there are two things going on right now that make the demand higher,” said Jerry Kaping, director of development at Shepherd’s House Ministries. “The 70% reduction in pantries across Oregon in fact, across the nation — as well as the SNAP benefits that have now been taken away.”
Kaping says the organization has been forced to use community donations as ingredients for meals served at its shelters.
Earlier this year, many charities lost a significant amount of funding due to federal budget cuts, compounding the strain.
To help meet growing demand, Shepherd’s House is asking for community support through its fundraising effort, “A Place at the Table,” which helps provide meals for people in need.
