Washington: Catholic charities across the United States are stepping up their food assistance programs as millions of Americans face uncertainty over their food benefits following cuts to the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
The federal funding freeze, caused by the ongoing government shutdown, has left about 42 million people unsure of when or how much assistance they will receive this month. Although the U.S. Department of Agriculture has promised partial payments using emergency funds, the amount available is far below what is needed to fully operate the program.
In many communities, Catholic organizations have become a lifeline. Catholic Charities USA and several diocesan networks have expanded their outreach by opening emergency food drives and extending pantry hours. In St. Louis, Catholic Charities launched a large-scale food collection to support nearly 300,000 residents who could lose access to their regular food benefits. In Hartford, Connecticut, the Archdiocese has released $500,000 in emergency funding to strengthen local food banks.
Similar efforts are taking place in Houston, where Catholic Charities has extended pantry hours and provided rental assistance for families affected by the funding pause. The Archdiocese reports a sharp rise in the number of people seeking help, including federal workers who are not receiving pay.
Faith leaders have described this growing crisis as an opportunity for communities to live out their faith through action. “This is our faith in action,” one Catholic Charities director said, stressing that the Church’s mission is not only to feed the hungry but also to defend the dignity of every person affected by poverty.
Across the country, Catholic agencies are reporting a sharp rise in demand. A parish pantry in Baltimore saw food requests increase by nearly 20 percent in just two weeks. In Seattle, Catholic and interfaith leaders have joined together to urge Congress and the administration to restore full SNAP funding, calling it a basic moral responsibility.
While partial federal support may bring some relief, many charities fear that the need will soon exceed their capacity. Church officials warn that food supplies are running low and donations alone cannot fill the national funding gap. They are appealing for greater public support and faster government action to prevent families from going hungry.
Catholic organizations say their work will continue regardless of the political situation. For them, the response to hunger is more than an act of charity—it is a reflection of faith and compassion toward those most in need.