This morning, I had a conversation with Dom Korbel, the Executive Director at Community Pathways. Community Pathways is the organization that runs the community food shelf and clothing bank for Owatonna and our surrounding area.
Dom said that yesterday, individuals and families who receive SNAP benefits (food stamps) were notified that because of the government shutdown, they would not be receiving their benefits in November.
This has caused a lot of sudden stress and anxiety for those in our community who are most in need, and who depend on the SNAP program to feed their families.
Some important statistics:
- Approximatlely 2,300 families who make use of resources at Community Pathways also make use of SNAP benefits.
- 47% of the individuals who use Community Pathways to supplement their food supply are either under age 18, or are senior citizens.
In addition, Dom said that since the news about SNAP benefits went out yesterday, they have been receiving emails and calls from individuals and families who have relied on SNAP, but haven’t had to visit Community Pathways in the past. Now they are wondering, “How do I sign up for help?”
This sudden influx of people will strain Community Pathways ability to provide for all in need.
We can help.
We encourage you to consider a financial donation directly to Community Pathways. You can do that by visiting their web site at www.communitypathwayssc.org They will also gladly receive donations of either non-perishable or fresh food.
If you would like to drop off either a financial donation, or a donation of food here at Trinity, we will gladly deliver it to Community Pathways.
Trinity will also be looking at our outreach budget to determine how much we can contribute at this time to meet this need.
In Paul’s letter to the Galatians, chapter 6, verse 2, he writes: “Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”
Together as a community, we can come together in the name of Jesus to provide for those who are in need. Together, we can bear the burdens of those who experience food anxiety. Together we can reflect the love of God.
Let’s do these things, together.
In Christ,
Pastor Todd
Leave a Reply