Local businesses step up as SNAP recipients face loss of benefits during government shutdown
By Norah Hogan
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WINDHAM, Maine (WMTW) — Local businesses are stepping up to help as nearly 170,000 Mainers prepare to lose their SNAP benefits because of the ongoing government shutdown.
When Hailey’s Kitchen owner Rebecca Coffin heard the news, she decided to act fast.
“If somebody comes in and can afford something, give it to them,” Coffin said.
Since making the announcement, community members have sprung into action. Some have donated money toward group meals, while others are “paying it forward” by purchasing an extra coffee or sandwich on their way out.
“A lot of people just want to help. We just need to know who to give the money to,” said Joyce Foley, who drove to Windham with her husband Peter Foley to donate to Hailey’s Kitchen. “I mean, I can’t invite everyone to my little house to feed them, you know, but a place like this can.”
Coffin said community support has been key to her efforts.
“If I had to do 100 meals a day, that would be a deficit for my business,” she said. “But with the support of the community, I can do that.”
Gorham resident Lindsay Santiago has relied on SNAP for years.
“I’m starting to get into panic mode already,” Santiago said.
She’s out of work due to a disability and has an 11-year-old daughter to feed.
“I feel like some people aren’t going to have choices,” she said. “You worry about what’s going to be available at the pantry in a week. So there are a lot of question marks right now.”
Community members like the Foleys hope others will step in to help their neighbors.
“If you know the upstairs neighbor or your family member who is in need of something like this, don’t hesitate,” Peter said.
“Just do it and vote for the people that it won’t take SNAP away,” added Joyce.
Coffin said she hopes other local businesses will join in to help, to provide meals while easing the burden on local food pantries.
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