Auburn Career Center in Concord Township held its inaugural food giveaway on October 24, 2023, attracting hundreds of individuals as concerns about food insecurity rise. The event coincides with the looming expiration of SNAP benefits on November 1, 2023, due to the ongoing government shutdown, leaving many families in dire need.
According to Dione Dimetro, executive director of United Way of Lake County, the situation is critical. “I don’t think it’s an exaggeration to say this is a crisis right now for many families,” she stated. Over 16,000 residents in Lake County rely on SNAP benefits, which will no longer be available starting next month.
Community members expressed their appreciation for the initiative. One woman from Kirtland, who waited in the drive-through line, mentioned, “It helps a lot of people on fixed incomes like myself. Fruits and vegetables are important, but they’re super expensive and it kind of helps the budget right now.”
Dr. Joe Glavan, superintendent of Auburn Career Center, highlighted the widespread need for such assistance. “I think it goes without saying there’s a huge need,” he remarked, reinforcing the importance of the food giveaway in addressing local food insecurity.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has indicated that the suspension of SNAP benefits stems from the government shutdown, with officials noting that “the well has run dry.” The USDA has reported that food insecurity disproportionately affects populations outside major urban areas, with approximately 55% of cases occurring in suburban or rural settings.
“Food insecurity is an everywhere problem,” Dimetro said. In Lake County, an alarming 16% of the population faces food insecurity, with the rate climbing to 17% for children. For many, including a man from Concord Township, this data reflects their daily reality. “We have to be careful how much we spend on food,” he shared, voicing concerns about the fate of their EBT cards amid the changes.
Auburn Career Center has committed to continuing the food giveaway program on the fourth Tuesday of each month, with the next events scheduled for November 25, December 16, January 27, February 24, March 24, April 28, May 26, and June 23. The giveaways will take place at the school’s training facility located at 10975 Girdled Road in Concord Township.
As the community rallies to support its most vulnerable members, initiatives like these are crucial in alleviating the immediate impact of food insecurity exacerbated by the loss of SNAP benefits.
