The Heartland region, encompassing Nebraska, western Iowa, Kansas, and Missouri, faces a growing challenge in ensuring food security for its residents. With events such as government shutdowns and economic hardships impacting families, access to nutritious food is becoming increasingly difficult for many. This article explores the current situation, the resources available, and how communities can come together to support those in need.
The Impact of SNAP Benefit Disruptions
The temporary pause in SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits presents a significant hurdle for numerous families in the Heartland. Across Nebraska and western Iowa, hundreds of thousands of individuals face the reality of not receiving their SNAP benefits. This disruption has a ripple effect, making it harder for families to afford essential nutritious foods like milk, eggs, and fresh produce. Active-duty military members, public servants, and government contractors are among those struggling to care for their loved ones and make ends meet during these challenging times.
One individual shared their experience: "Without SNAP (the only assistance which I receive), I would not be alive today…I was out of work for two weeks due to COVID-19. My family went without a decent meal for a week. Watching my young children go to the fridge and walk away empty handed with distressed looks in their eyes was heartbreaking. Monthly SNAP benefits helped tremendously!"
Food Bank for the Heartland: Stepping Up to Meet the Demand
In response to the surge in need for food assistance, Food Bank for the Heartland is preparing to play a crucial role. The organization is committed to ensuring that individuals have consistent access to healthy food, not only during the shutdown but also beyond.
How to Support Food Bank for the Heartland
- Financial Donations: Financial contributions are the most effective way to make a meaningful impact. 96 cents of every dollar donated goes directly back into the community. Thanks to relationships with retailers, the Food Bank can purchase food in bulk, stretching donations even further.
- Food Donations: Donated food helps provide nourishing meals for neighbors in need. Organizing a food drive in your community, school, or office can make a significant difference. The Food Bank strongly encourages non-perishable donations and requests that donors avoid glass containers. Easy-to-prepare items that require minimal additional ingredients are in high demand. Donations can be delivered to their office and warehouse at 10525 J Street in Omaha. Follow the signs to Dock Door 6 and call 402-905-4809 upon arrival.
- Volunteering: Volunteers are the heart of the organization. With an increased need and an influx of donations, gifts of time and talent are even more imperative.
Heartland United Way: Bridging the Gap in Grand Island
In Grand Island, Nebraska, Heartland United Way is actively partnering with local organizations to ensure families continue to have access to the nutritious food they need. They are asking the community for food donations to make an immediate impact. Financial contributions offer flexibility and allow for the purchase of fresh items. Heartland United Way is collecting monetary donations specifically designated to Hope Harbor and Crossroads Mission Avenue and is matching donations to the Fill the Gap Fund up to $10,000.
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The Role of Small Farms in Promoting Health
Small, locally-owned farms play a vital role in providing healthy food options. Health expert Dr. Daphne Miller emphasizes that produce grown by these farms can offer a healthier eating experience. Supporting local farmers benefits communities and promotes the health of citizens.
SNAP Outreach and Additional Resources
Despite the pause in SNAP benefits, resources are still available to assist individuals and families. Food Bank for the Heartland’s SNAP Outreach team helps people navigate the application process, understand program benefits, and access additional community resources. Their SNAP/Food Resources Hotline remains open, connecting individuals with the support they need. In FY 2025, the team helped submit 5,371 applications in Nebraska and 12,256 applications in Iowa.
Double Up Food Bucks: Incentivizing Healthy Choices
Double Up Food Bucks is a public-private partnership that gives SNAP recipients bonus dollars to use when they purchase fruits and vegetables from local farmers and retailers. This initiative benefits communities, farmers, and the health of citizens. SNAP recipients can earn up to $20 in Double Up Food Bucks when they spend $20 on fresh produce at participating retailers.
The Double Up Heartland Collaborative, a group of organizations working in Kansas and Missouri, delivers the Double Up Food Bucks program in those states. This program makes it easier for low-income families to eat fresh fruits and vegetables while supporting family farmers and growing local economies. The Double Up Food Bucks program began in Detroit in 2009 and is now available in over 25 states, including Missouri, Kansas, and neighboring Arkansas, Colorado, Iowa, Nebraska, and Oklahoma.
Taking Collective Action
Now is the time to come together and use our voices collectively to ensure every family has the stability and support they need to get back on their feet. Contacting elected officials to reopen the government and maintain nutrition programs is crucial for helping families weather tough times and strengthen communities.
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