URGENT UPDATE: Santa Clara County has just announced a critical $4.5 million funding boost to the Second Harvest Food Bank as the looming government shutdown threatens food access for over 133,000 residents. Starting November 1, without federal intervention, vital CalFresh benefits will cease, leaving many families facing heartbreaking choices between paying bills or putting food on the table.
Santa Clara County Supervisor Otto Lee emphasized the county’s commitment to its residents, stating, “We are here to support you. We’ll do all we can to make sure that you, your family, and your children are not going to miss meals.” The county’s proactive funding aims to alleviate the impact of the federal government’s inaction.
The dire situation is compounded by previous federal cuts, which have already cost Santa Clara County over $1 billion in healthcare and food assistance. Supervisor Susan Ellenberg described the federal government’s decision to halt SNAP benefits as “unjust, unnecessary, and cruel,” pledging that Santa Clara County will do everything in its power to mitigate these harmful actions.
Second Harvest Food Bank, which operates more than 600 distribution sites, is bracing for the increased demand as benefits are withdrawn. CEO Leslie Bacho remarked, “Second Harvest of Silicon Valley is already serving one in six of our neighbors. As soon as these benefits are withheld, we anticipate that our lines will get longer.” The food bank is currently facing a staggering $25 million in lost benefits amid a growing food insecurity crisis within the county.
County Executive James Williams criticized the federal government’s failure to address the crisis, stating, “This is a callous choice by this presidential administration, which has deliberately chosen not to tap into available emergency funding.” He reaffirmed the county’s commitment to providing access to necessary services for those affected.
Residents facing the loss of benefits can reach out to Second Harvest at 1-800-984-3663 or dial 211 for Santa Clara County’s resource line. For further assistance, individuals can also consult the county’s Community Resource Guide to locate free food options nearby.
As the situation develops, Santa Clara County voters will soon decide on Measure A, a temporary sales tax aimed at compensating for previous federal cuts. The urgency of this funding underscores the critical need for support as the community rallies to ensure no one goes hungry during this challenging period.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds. Share this information to help spread awareness and support for those in need.
