SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — The government shutdown is nearing the one-month mark.
If lawmakers don’t come to an agreement, SNAP benefits could be disrupted in November.
There are things you can do to make sure people in our area have something to eat.
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The food pantry at St. Katharine Drexel Catholic Church in Sioux Falls pantry has seen an increase in people needing its help with food and diapers in recent months, according to administrative assistant Elise McGinley.
“I just think it’s the economic atmosphere right now. A lot of people are coming to town looking for work and trying to find housing and trying to meet the need to bridge the gap between when they get a job, get a paycheck, and then start being able to support themselves,” McGinley said.
Pantries could see more guests if the shutdown carries on.
There are different ways to help food organizations in your area.
One way is by organizing a food drive.
“Anyone can host a food drive. It doesn’t matter if you’re at a school or a church or your place of work. It’s really easy. We’ve got a tool kit online,” Feeding South Dakota Community Engagement Manager Jennifer Stensaas said.
Foods that are shelf-stable and easy to prepare are good options for donating.
“Dry pasta, canned pasta meals, any kinds of sides like rice sides, potato sides, Hamburger Helper, tuna, canned tuna, canned chicken, macaroni and cheese, cereals,” McGinley said.
Stensaas says volunteering is also a good way to pitch in.
“We’ve got a lot of different opportunities at our distribution centers, and if you live outside of our Sioux Falls, Rapid City, or Pierre areas, we can also connect you with agency partners that might need that volunteer support,” Stensaas said.
McGinley says you could call an organization in your community to find out how to help.
“Ask, ‘Hey, can we donate money? Can we donate canned goods? Dry goods? How do I go about doing that?’ And I would say the majority of people would be more than happy to help people navigate how to best give,” McGinley said.
For information on how to get involved, click here.
