Hunger is a problem in the U.S. that has been magnified due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

In this video, Lynnette shares information on available SNAP food benefits and resources to anyone that needs help.

Transcript

Lynnette Khalfani Cox: Did you know that in America over 10 percent of all people struggle with hunger? It’s a major problem. I want to tell you about some resources where you can go to get food if you need it for you and your family.

First off, there are federal benefits called SNAP benefits. That’s the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Listen, I know that generally speaking, outside of a pandemic like the one we’re experiencing right now, most of you might be thinking, “That’s for low income people or people who are super poor. That’s not me.”

Right now, it might be you because you might qualify on an income basis if you’ve lost your job, if you’ve been furloughed, if your hours have been reduced, if your pay has been slashed, or if you just don’t have very much savings in the bank right now. SNAP benefits are based on income and resources, cash in the bank, at the time that you apply.

Again, I would encourage you to look into that program if you need it. There’s other programs, as well, local programs where you can get food immediately, like food banks and food pantries, even faith based organizations that offer food and nutrition support.

Check out the website feedingamerica.org. It’ll show you a list, for example, of local food banks in your area. They have a massive number of listings for cities, counties, states, etc. It could be just the resource you need to keep food on the table.

Learn where to apply for SNAP here – https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/state-directory

Find food pantries here – https://feedingamerica.org