LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — As the government shutdown enters its 27th day, families in the Las Vegas Valley are struggling to find assistance, and local food pantries are overwhelmed by unprecedented demand. Critical services and resources have been halted, leaving many without essential support.
The shelves at food pantries, typically stocked with fresh produce and various groceries, are now empty. Maxine Coronado, who recently lost her job and had her SNAP benefits cut, experienced this firsthand when she arrived at the Lutheran Social Services of Nevada to find its doors locked. “I depend on things like this, especially because we are having a hard time,” Coronado shared.
Lutheran Social Services of Nevada, which normally serves over 300 families four days a week, relies on federal funding. CEO Tim Bedwell explained that without these crucial dollars, the non-profit cannot restock its shelves or pay its workers, leading to fears that local families will go hungry. Bedwell urged the public to “reach out to your legislators and let them know they can fight their battles, but they need to get the funding reinstated for the government.”
The impact of the shutdown extends nationwide, with 1 in 8 Nevadians relying on SNAP benefits. On November 1st, the federal government will not distribute assistance, leaving more than 40 million Americans, including Maxine Coronado, in a precarious situation. Coronado is now left searching for alternative support from other food banks or churches.
The doors at Lutheran Social Services of Nevada will remain locked until further notice, a stark reminder of the shutdown’s immediate and severe consequences on vulnerable communities.
Need Food Assistance?
FoodFinder offers a different approach to fighting hunger. Their website and app act as food pantry locators that show you when and where to get free food assistance in your area. The interactive map on their home page displays nearby food assistance programs – every red pin you see is a food pantry. Tap on one to see when they give away food.
Three Square also served the residents of Lincoln, Nye, Esmeralda, and Clark Counties since 2007. Their mission is to provide wholesome food to hungry people, while passionately pursuing a hunger-free community. You can find more information here.
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