Letter from AAIC on SNAP Benefits

At Attleboro Area Interfaith Collaborative, we are closely monitoring the federal government’s shutdown and its potential impact on SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance program). More than one million Massachusetts residents rely on SNAP, including thousands in Bristol County. Many of our Food n’ Friends guests depend on SNAP benefits to make ends meet. Typically, during the first week of the month—when benefits are distributed—we see attendance at our meals site decrease. As the month goes on and SNAP funds run out, the number of meals served steadily increases. We anticipate that if SNAP benefits are delayed or reduced, more of our neighbors will turn to Food n’ Friends meal sites for support.

Our Work Continues

Because the majority of our funding sources come from private grants and donations, our kitchens remain open and fully operational during the shutdown. We continue to provide free, hot meals across Greater Attleboro. There are no ID, registration, residency, or eligibility requirements. We are committed to helping neighbors from Attleboro to Foxboro to Mansfield to Norton, and beyond.

How You Can Help

There are many ways you can stand with us—and the millions of people who rely on SNAP in Massachusetts. First, consider a donation of $10, $50, or $100 to support our Food n’ Friends program. Your gift supports the purchase of groceries and supplies—proteins, fruits, vegetables, milk, eggs, and pantry staples that keep our neighbors fed. Please consider making a donation today to help us fight food insecurity.

Second, help us spread the word. Our kitchens are unique in being accessible to all: there are no ID, registration, residency, or eligibility requirements. On our website, you can find kitchen times, dates, and locations, as well as flyers in English and Spanish.

Resources

If you or someone you know needs help paying for food, call Project Bread’s FoodSource Hotline at 1-800-645-8333. This hotline connects Massachusetts residents with information about food banks and additional resources.

Thank you for standing with us in compassion and community.

Shir Lovett-Graff, Executive Director