MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Food Bank of Reno County is urging residents to step up as federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are expected to be delayed in the coming weeks, threatening food security for thousands of local households.
Executive Director Angela Penner said the anticipated cutbacks could have an unprecedented impact on families and the food bank's ability to serve them.
“We are preparing for a level of need we’ve never seen before,” Penner said. “One in five children in Reno County already faces food insecurity, and many of their families depend on SNAP. If those benefits are interrupted, our food bank will be the first line of defense.”
About 4,800 people in Reno County rely on SNAP, totaling nearly 8% of the population. Those benefits add more than $800,000 to the local economy each month, according to state data. A halt to those payments could not only leave families hungry but also impact retailers and businesses that depend on grocery spending.
The food bank is asking for both food and financial donations to help meet the immediate and growing need. Non-perishable items can be dropped off at the food bank, located at 700 N. Walnut, or at collection barrels inside Dillons Marketplace on 30th Avenue.
While food goods are welcome, financial contributions can maximize the impact, Penner said. Through a partnership with the Food Bank of Kansas, the organization can purchase food at deeply discounted rates, stretching donor dollars further than retail purchases. Funds also allow the food bank to buy specific nutritious items needed for balanced diets and help manage storage space efficiently.
Beyond immediate needs, the Food Bank is continuing its “Nourishing Our Future” capital campaign to support long-term food security. The organization recently purchased a new facility at 921 E. 4th Ave., tripling its current space. The larger building will offer expanded cold storage, safer volunteer areas and allow multiple families to shop with dignity at the same time.
The food bank aims to raise $1 million for the renovation and expansion project. So far, $433,000 has been secured through grants and community support.
“Our current space was never designed to serve this many people,” Penner said. “This new facility will allow us to serve more families more efficiently and with greater dignity.”
For more information on how to support the Food Bank of Reno County, visit renocountyfoodbank.org or call 620-200-6620.