SNAP Cuts and Our Commitment
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| Supporting families in the face of reduced benefits
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The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known in our state as CalFresh, has long served as a lifeline for millions of Americans, providing essential support for individuals and families facing food insecurity. In past government shutdowns these benefits were provided but on November 1st, funding for the program will be temporarily halted. The elimination of SNAP benefits will leave many households struggling to put nutritious food on the table. With fewer resources, families must make difficult decisions between groceries, rent, healthcare, and other necessities.
In Sonoma Valley, the effects of these SNAP cuts are already being anticipated. FISH expects to see an increase in requests for food and other assistance. Seniors, disabled adults, working families, and children are among those most affected by these benefit reductions. The impact is real, and the need for additional support has never been greater.
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Community Support For Our Response |
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At FISH, we are committed to fighting hunger and supporting vulnerable residents of Sonoma Valley. We have stepped up our efforts in response to these changes. With the help of generous supporters, FISH is gearing up for the increased need for food. A few examples:
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Recent food donations include a generous delivery of vegetables from Haystack Farm that includes squash, broccoli, kale, carrots, tomatoes, melons and herbs. FISH is also the beneficiary of ½ steer from a generous donor. 350 pounds was picked up from Bud’s in Penngrove and our meat freezer is now filled with beef, chicken and pork to share.
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On Saturday, November 1st, Sonoma United Methodist Church is holding a concert where the only admission is canned goods or other nonperishables for FISH. The "Love Works" concert begins at 6 p.m. at 109 Patten St.
- Our Sonoma Valley Scouts will conduct their annual “Scouting for Food” drive on Saturday, November 8th. Soon Scouts will place a flyer on you doorknob with suggestion for donations and they will drive by on the morning of November 8th to pick up the food items you leave on your front porch.
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Enclos, a new restaurant on the Plaza, is supporting FISH with a fundraiser through sales of Thanksgiving pies and other treats.
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Extra support for those in need will also come via our Holiday Food Baskets in December. We expect to provide over 550 families with a large box of fresh produce, cheese and a gift card. Registration is taking place at FISH Central on October 28 from 12:00 – 2:00 p.m. and November 1st from 10 a.m. - noon. If you'd like to help with Bell Ringing to raise funds for this project, sign up here.
- Our Food program budget for 2026 has been increased by 25% as we anticipate the need to continue into next year.
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Community support is vital during this challenging time. We encourage individuals and businesses to get involved by volunteering, making donations, or spreading awareness of this challenge. FISH is not the only nonprofit addressing the need – Redwood Empire Food Bank is a key provider of food in our valley and will also need extra support. Together with other local organizations, we can ensure that no family goes hungry due to policy changes beyond their control.
While SNAP cuts present significant challenges, FISH remains steadfast in our mission: lending a helping hand to our neighbors in need by providing critical safety net services. By working together, we are committed to supporting a stronger, healthier community for all.
For more information about our food program or to get involved, please visit our website at the link below. Your support always makes a difference!
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PO Box 507 | Sonoma, CA 95476-0507 US
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