San Jose grocer gives $100 shopping spree to struggling SNAP beneficiaries: ‘Give back’
As the government shutdown reaches its 40th day, Bay Area businesses are stepping up to help families missing out on SNAP food benefits. A free grocery shopping spree has brought a huge backlash from members of the South Bay community.
Families go grocery shopping on Sunday and buy everything they need.
That’s something Sabrina Phillips hasn’t been able to do since SNAP benefits were frozen.
“I bought some poultry and veal eggs and everything that was very expensive,” Phillips said.
Arteagas Food Center in East San Jose is now offering a free one-day shopping spree to the community feeling the pinch of the government shutdown.
“This is our way of giving back so they have something to eat during this time,” Alfredo Lopez said.
Live updates: Impact of government shutdown on Bay Area, California SNAP benefits
Market owner Alfredo Lopez distributes $100 shopping vouchers to families in need. Sponsors and donations make this possible.
“When they first announced that SNAP was going to be shut down, there were people coming out of necessity trying to get food, trying to get food and get out because they didn’t have SNAP. Now you see the impact it’s causing in the community,” Lopez added.
“It means so much, we were really scared about what the benefits would be, I guess it’s a protection,” Phillips said.
Me and my daughter are now in CalFresh,” said Rosa Castaneda.
Castaneda is a student trying to provide for his family, but it is very difficult.
“It feels like the world is on fire and no one actually cares about us,” Casteneda said.
San Jose City Council Member Peter Ortiz says there’s been a lot of confusion because some SNAP benefits have been restored while others have been stopped by the federal government.
“Families are struggling, this is the worst time for this to happen, Thanksgiving is coming up when many Latino and immigrant families come together.
MORE: Californians begin to see SNAP benefits resume, SF residents also get extra food assistance
California families are beginning to receive SNAP benefits as the fight to receive full funding from the Trump administration continues.
There are enough coupons for 380 households, but more than 600 people showed up, some waiting in line for hours.
People who can’t get a coupon can take home anything from the mobile pantry; beans, snacks, tomatoes, many fruits and vegetables.
Sabrina says she’s grateful she did what she could during this extremely stressful time.
“I don’t know what’s going to happen. It’s very, very helpful,” Phillips added.
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