The Redwood Empire Food Bank and other North Bay agencies are preparing for a massive surge in need as the federal government shutdown threatens to halt food assistance for tens of thousands of residents.
According to the Press Democrat, starting this weekend, the ongoing shutdown means more than 50,000 people in Sonoma and Napa counties could lose their CalFresh benefits, also known as SNAP. For perspective, one food bank leader noted that the federal program provides nine meals for every one meal a food bank provides.
To meet the anticipated demand:
- The Redwood Empire Food Bank is increasing deliveries to about 14 sites across Sonoma County, bracing for a 20% to 40% jump in households seeking help.
- Napa County has approved up to $1 million in emergency food assistance, including grocery gift cards, to cover the gap.
- Community Action of Napa Valley is adding a fourth day of pantry service and a new weekly free food market.
Food bank staff are working quickly to ramp up operations, but warn that the loss of federal aid poses a major threat to local resources.