A recent notification from Knox County's Job and Family Services has informed families about a potential disruption in food assistance programs due to a freeze in federal funding. This halt affects benefits like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), which have not been approved for release in November. Consequently, over 2,700 households in Knox County may face challenges as their EBT cards might not be reloaded with the monthly stipend, leading to increased food insecurity.
In response, local non-profit organizations are mobilizing to support those impacted by this temporary gap. Hot meals will be available every day of the week through various congregations around Mount Vernon. A comprehensive list of meal locations can be found in the Resource Navigator’s Hot Meal Guide.
For grocery needs, residents of Knox County can visit several food pantries, including Interchurch Social Services, Salvation Army, First Church of the Nazarene, Church on the Rise, Center of Hope, ACTS/Seventh Day Adventist Food Pantry for Mount Vernon residents, and Jacque Cordie’s Children’s Fund for Centerburg residents. Each pantry has specific operating hours and requirements. Updated information is accessible via United Way's Resource Navigator’s Food Pantry Guide or on Facebook at @Live United Knox County Ohio.
Interchurch Social Services and Food for the Hungry have also organized a special pop-up event scheduled for Saturday, November 1, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm at Habitat for Humanity located at 405 W. Chestnut Street in Mount Vernon. Those earning 200% or less of the Federal Poverty Level are eligible to receive a box of food during this event. These distribution efforts will continue as long as benefit freezes persist.
Individuals wishing to contribute to local food assistance initiatives can donate through Food for the Hungry. For volunteer opportunities, contact Walt Lewis at United Way via email at walt@uwayknox.org.
The United Way remains committed to assisting residents with various community resources beyond food assistance, including rental or utility aid. More details are available in their Resource Navigator guide.
Information from this article can be found here.
