UPDATE: Santa Clara County has just announced a vital allocation of $4.5 million to Second Harvest of Silicon Valley as approximately 133,000 residents brace for a loss of federal food assistance benefits next month. This urgent measure comes ahead of a potential government shutdown that threatens the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), known as CalFresh in California.
This critical funding is essential as families face the impending expiration of benefits on November 1, 2023. With benefits potentially reaching $785 per month for a family of three, the loss will hit many low-income households hard. As a result, the food bank anticipates a significant surge in demand, with lines likely to grow longer starting this weekend.
Leslie Bacho, CEO of Second Harvest, highlighted the dire situation, stating that many families will struggle to afford basic necessities. “We cannot control what happens in Washington D.C., but we can control how we show up for our neighbors right here at home,” she emphasized, underscoring the immediate human impact of these cuts.
County Executive James Williams confirmed that the funding will allow Second Harvest to “purchase more food and expand distribution points.” However, he cautioned that this financial support, which comes from the county’s contingency fund, may lead to further budget cuts in other areas, notably the Santa Clara Valley Healthcare system.
As the ripple effects of recent federal decisions loom large, the county is also grappling with a food insecurity crisis that exceeds national averages. Santa Clara County Supervisor Sylvia Arenas expressed concern for vulnerable communities, noting that 60% of the 27,000 residents relying on CalFresh in her district are seniors or children. “Hunger on top of existing struggles will profoundly impact our community,” she warned.
The county’s Board of Supervisors President, Otto Lee, called the loss of benefits “an even more dangerous and disturbing step by our federal administration.” He stressed that equitable access to food should be a right for everyone, regardless of socio-economic status.
To address the growing crisis, county officials are actively seeking additional food supplies, volunteers, and donations for Second Harvest. They are also reaching out to CalFresh recipients to inform them of the potential lapse in benefits and available resources.
Robert Sacasa, assistant director for the county’s department of employment and benefit services, stated, “We know how serious these disruptions are for local families. We remain committed to helping all our residents live with dignity and access the benefits they are eligible for.”
Residents of Santa Clara and San Mateo counties can access essential food resources by calling Second Harvest of Silicon Valley at 1-800-984-3663 or visiting shfb.org.
As the situation continues to develop, local leaders emphasize the need for community support and resources to alleviate the burden on those most affected by the loss of federal assistance. The urgency for action has never been greater, and every effort counts in the fight against hunger.
