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In response to the ongoing federal suspension of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, Dutchess Outreach is organizing special food pick-ups for SNAP beneficiaries in Poughkeepsie. These pick-ups will take place at the Family Partnership Center, located at 29 North Hamilton Street, on Tuesday (November 4), Wednesday (November 5), and Thursday (November 6). The times for these distributions are from 9 to 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday and Wednesday, and from 4 to 6:30 p.m. on Thursday. Recipients are advised to bring their Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card and a reusable bag.
Dutchess Outreach is also keeping its food pantry open to all residents, not just SNAP recipients. This initiative comes as the region faces increased food insecurity due to the suspension of SNAP benefits, affecting approximately 26,130 individuals in Dutchess County, which accounts for about 8.8 percent of the population. The organization is preparing for a surge in demand as it continues to provide chef-prepared meals six days a week.
The federal government has announced that partial payments from an emergency fund might cover SNAP recipients in November, but delays are expected due to the ongoing government shutdown. According to Mid Hudson News, the president has indicated plans to release half of the budgeted SNAP funding, but the timeline remains unclear.
Residents unable to attend the food pick-ups at the Family Partnership Center are encouraged to check with their local food pantries, as food distribution efforts are being conducted countywide. Community support through donations and volunteering is vital during this time, as local officials and organizations work to mitigate the impact of the SNAP suspension.