Community Mobilizes to Combat Potential SNAP Disruptions Amid Federal Shutdown
- Steve Jurrens
- Nov 3
- 2 min read
Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - Local community leaders are coordinating an intensive effort to address the immediate and growing food insecurity resulting from
the ongoing federal government shutdown and the potential disruption of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.
At Monday's City Council meeting, Laura Heathcote, Executive Director of the Watertown Area United Way, and Captain Dennis Jolly of the Salvation Army, provided an urgent update on the situation, highlighting the essential role SNAP plays in the community…
"In September, 960 households in Codington County, including 721 children, received SNAP assistance," Heathcote stated. "These benefits play a vital role in keeping local families fed and supported."
The looming threat of benefit disruption has already caused a surge in demand for local food assistance…
Captain Jolly reported a drastic increase in need at the Salvation Army…
"The need is huge. And people are scared. People are worried," said Jolly, adding a note of reassurance, "but the Salvation Army, with our partners at United Way, we're going to make sure people get fed."
In response to the growing crisis, the Salvation Army is increasing its services to provide two food boxes per individual per month, up from the previous limit of one.
Community Partners Coordinate Resources
The Watertown Area United Way has been working closely with its over 30 local partner agencies, as well as the Beacon Center, Grace Lutheran Church, and the Watertown Banquet, to coordinate resources.
"We want to extend a heartfelt thanks to our community members that have stepped up and that are hosting food drives," Heathcote said. "Your generosity and compassion are make Watertown a stronger community."
To address the immediate need, the community is asked to direct all non-perishable food items and donations to the Salvation Army. An updated food list, detailing current organizational needs, will be made available at https://codingtonconnects.com/local-resources/.
Availability of Low-Cost and Hot Meals
Local organizations are expanding their meal programs to ensure warm, reliable food options are available to residents:
· Hy-Vee is offering low-cost family meals for $3 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., with children 12 and under eating for free. This promotional meal service is in effect this week.
· The Watertown Banquet will continue to serve a hot meal on Monday evening.
· Grace Lutheran Church will open up for a community meal on Wednesday.
· The Salvation Army will begin hosting a warm meal on Friday evening, starting November 14th, to help prepare for the weekend.
Local leaders remain committed to providing stability and hope during this uncertain time. "We will continue to work closely with our partner agencies... to coordinate resources to make sure that every neighbor has access to food, stability, and hope," Heathcote concluded.
