Watertown Community Rallies to Ensure Families Have Food as SNAP Benefits Change
- Steve Jurrens
- Oct 31
- 2 min read
Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - As recent changes to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits take effect and funding is not expected to renew after November 10, a powerful coalition of local community partners has mobilized to ensure Watertown families continue to have stable access to food and essential support.
"Food insecurity doesn’t just affect one household—it impacts our entire community,” said Heathcote, Executive Director of Watertown Area United Way. “We’re proud to work alongside dedicated partners to make sure no one goes without food or hope during this time.”
The coordinated effort involves representatives from the Watertown Area United Way, Watertown Area Community Foundation, The Beacon Center, The Salvation Army, The City of Watertown, Grace Lutheran Church, and The Watertown Banquet. This group is working to meet increased community needs and share resources efficiently.
Expanded Meal Schedule and Food Drive
To immediately address the heightened demand, food boxes are currently supplementing supplies, and distribution will continue.
· Feed the Need Food Drive: A major food drive begins on November 3, with The Salvation Army serving as the central collection and distribution site for all donations.
· Thanksgiving Assistance: Registration for Thanksgiving food assistance through The Salvation Army is open until November 7.
· Wild Game Donations: Community members can donate processed wild game by contacting Grace Lutheran Church at (605) 886-5737.
Affordable and Free Community Meals
Local businesses and organizations are expanding meal options to provide immediate relief:
· Hy-Vee Community Support Meals: Hy-Vee is offering affordable meals from Monday, November 3, through Friday, November 7, served daily from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Meals are just $3 each, and kids eat free.
Beginning November 10, a hot community meal schedule will continue throughout the benefit adjustment period:
For a full list of additional food resources available across the community, interested residents can visit www.codingtonconnects.org. Organizations or groups interested in joining the local food resource list can email Codingtonconnects@gmail.com with their information.
