URGENT UPDATE: The Lowcountry is facing a humanitarian crisis as local charities report an unprecedented surge in demand for food assistance just days before the potential cuts to SNAP benefits take effect.
In Hardeeville, South Carolina, the Glorious Church of Jesus Christ has seen a staggering 20-30% increase in families seeking help at their weekly food bank. Alberta Gray, the food bank director, stated, “We have never seen it like this before.” With families preparing for what they may not receive from government assistance starting this Saturday, the situation is dire.
Gray noted the urgency as families lined up outside the church as early as 6:00 AM, fearing that supplies would run out. “So, if this is being done on the first day of this, can you imagine for the rest of the time?” she asked. The church’s pantry, which often serves hundreds, is already struggling with inadequate supplies.
The ripple effect extends beyond Hardeeville. Second Helpings, which provides 85% of the food distributed by the church, has reported a doubling of clients in the last week alone. The organization serves over 55 pantries, soup kitchens, and senior services across Beaufort, Jasper, and Hampton counties. Executive Director Amy Colin expressed grave concerns over the community’s ability to cope.
“The thing that people are going without is food. When you start reducing SNAP and other federal benefits, it is increasing at an alarming rate,” Colin stated. The pressure is mounting as families find themselves forced to choose between basic necessities. “There’s only so much income at the end of the month when you’re paying for your roof and your transportation and your medical care.”
Local grocery stores, which also rely on SNAP payments, are diminishing their donations, further complicating the food shortage crisis. As the community braces for the impact of these cuts, Second Helpings is urging local businesses and residents to launch food drives and contribute financially to cover the growing demands.
The humanitarian needs in the Lowcountry are escalating rapidly. With only days left before the SNAP cuts, organizations are calling for immediate action and assistance from the community. Donations can be made to Second Helpings or local agencies to help alleviate this urgent shortfall.
As the deadline approaches, authorities and charities are preparing for what could be a long-lasting impact on families already in crisis. The time to act is now—communities must come together to ensure no one goes hungry.
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