Hope in Our Community: From the Desk of Our CEO

As I write this column, most public benefits programs operated by the federal government are on hold or greatly diminished. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, also known as food stamps) has received the most publicity as it is the largest of these types of programs. Nearly 40% of SNAP recipients are children, while 20% are seniors and another 10% are people with disabilities. In Martin County it is estimated that there are approximately 12,000 SNAP recipients. These are our most vulnerable residents. They are our neighbors, the classmates of our children, our friends and our family members.

In addition, over 4.7 million Floridians are facing huge increases in health care costs with the possible cuts to the Affordable Care Act. All of this turmoil comes during the holiday season, which brings its own increased levels of stress and financial challenges for so many people. Here at House of Hope, we see an increase in need at the holiday time each year. We also just completed our fiscal year on September 30th and distributed nearly 1.7 million pounds of food across the area, an increase of 500,000 pounds from the year before. We expect to see another huge increase in this fiscal year, as the need is even greater than usual.

But the response has also been far greater than usual. Our incredible community has so far risen to the occasion. I am proud and grateful to write that we have seen a huge increase in individuals donating food at our four food pantries across the county. In addition to the groups and businesses that we count on each year to do food drives for us, many new ones have come forward. Individuals, funders, and faith based partners have responded with financial contributions of all sizes. Residents and groups have reached out about volunteer opportunities (of which we have many) to lend a hand.

But we are certainly not out of the woods yet. As you may know, in addition to our four food pantries, we are also a food bank. We share food to over 30 other agencies such as soup kitchens, youth programs, shelters and more. Our partners are also seeing huge increases in the need for their services. With your help, all of our programs and services for clients and partners will remain at no cost, and we will meet the needs of our neighbors.

Our deep gratitude goes out to all who have found a way to help us this season. To those that are considering, please know that every pound of food and every dollar of support makes a difference in our efforts to provide healthy food to our neighbors in need. If you would like to learn more or to see how you may assist, or if you know someone who needs our support, please visit our website at www.hohmartin.org.  Best wishes to all for a Happy Thanksgiving, and thank you for providing hope in our community.