Faithfully Responding to SNAP cuts

As followers of Christ, we are called to love our neighbors and seek justice for all. As a result of the government shut down, SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) funds have not been paid this month, creating a greater strain on folks trying to put food on the table. 

Our city has the power to make a real difference. The City Council is currently considering whether to release reserve funds to help offset these cuts and ensure that no one in our community goes hungry.

We invite you to take a few minutes this week to contact your City Council representative and urge them to support the release of these reserve funds for food assistance. Your voice matters—when people of faith speak up, city leaders listen.

You can find your representative and their contact information here:  https://www.rochestermn.gov/departments/city-clerk/elections/who-represents-me

When you reach out, you might say something like:

“Hello, my name is [Your Name], and I am a constituent from [Ward/Neighborhood]. I’m calling because I’m concerned about  cuts to SNAP and WIC, and the impact on families in our community. I urge you to support releasing city contingency/reserve funds to provide emergency food-assistance support now. I believe this action shows our city cares for all residents and lives out the values of compassion, service, and neighbor-love. Thank you for your time and leadership.”

As this crisis continues, The Congregational Church UCC will continue to serve locally to help respond to the increased need. You can donate to the free little pantry at COPAL by leaving food items in the narthex, those items will be taken in weekly. You can join a group serving at the Channel One foodbank by signing up at congoroch.org/events Or donate directly to Channel One at helpfeedingpeople.org. For those in the congregation that are impacted by these cuts, please contact one of the pastors for assistance. The church maintains the Care Fund for times like this. 

Let us respond to the struggles of today by rooting ourselves in Jesus’ command to love our neighbors as ourselves. 

Peace

Reverands Andrew Greenhaw and Shannon Smith