Santa Clara County Allocates $4.5M to Combat Food Insecurity

URGENT UPDATE: Santa Clara County has just announced a critical allocation of $4.5 million to the Second Harvest Food Bank amid the looming government shutdown. This decision comes as 133,000 residents face the harsh reality of potentially losing vital food assistance benefits starting November 1.

Authorities report that CalFresh, California’s SNAP benefits program, will cease operations without a resolution to the ongoing federal shutdown. Residents may soon have to choose between essential bills and putting food on the table for their families. Santa Clara County Supervisor Otto Lee expressed solidarity with those affected, stating, “We are here to support you. We’ll do all we can to ensure that you, your family, and your children are not going to miss meals.”

The county’s funding will enable Second Harvest Food Bank to maintain its extensive network of over 600 distribution sites, crucial for feeding thousands of residents facing food insecurity. CEO Leslie Bacho emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that the organization is already serving one in six neighbors. “As soon as these benefits are withheld, we anticipate that our lines will get longer,” Bacho warned.

Santa Clara County has already suffered significant setbacks, with losses exceeding $1 billion due to federal cuts to healthcare and food assistance. Supervisor Susan Ellenberg condemned the federal government’s actions, calling the suspension of SNAP benefits “unjust, unnecessary and cruel.” She reinforced the county’s commitment to mitigate these harmful impacts on vulnerable residents.

The situation highlights the pressing need for local solutions as the county prepares for a vote on Measure A, a temporary sales tax aimed at compensating for previous federal cuts. County Executive James Williams criticized the federal government’s inaction, describing it as a “callous choice” that has left Santa Clara County to shoulder the burden of decisions made at the national level.

Residents who may be affected by the impending loss of benefits are urged to seek assistance immediately. They can contact Second Harvest at 1-800-984-3663 or call Santa Clara County’s resource line by dialing 211. More information on free food resources can also be found in the county’s Community Resource Guide.

This developing story emphasizes the immediate need for community support as local leaders strive to ensure that no family goes hungry during this critical time. Stay tuned for updates as the situation unfolds.