SNAP benefits in danger; how Rockford pantries are responding

With SNAP benefits being halted Nov. 1, those looking to provide will have a tall task to climb.

For pet owners the challenge is even greater.

There are a lot of people who are struggling and having to make a choice on to feed their children and feeding their pets,” Barry Casebere, a volunteer at My Three Pups Food Pantry said.

There are a couple of “pet-centric” food pantries in the Rockford area. My Three Pups typically sees around 100 visitors a week but Casebere said that number will rise.

“Yeah, we are seeing an increase. A substantial number of our clients already are on snap and, we do expect to see more people,” he said.

Another pet food pantry, Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary, has already seen an increase in visitors and donations. The pantry is a first-come first serve type of operation. With the increase in demand, it has been more difficult to replenish. In order to keep the pantry stocked, Fundraising Coordinator Marcia Brice says they’ll need more support from the community.

“It’s very important that the animals are fed too. A lot of the people are very appreciative, but we can’t do it without the help from the public, too,” she said. “…because this is all donated food that we do distribute to the people who need help.”

My Three Pups is currently closed as it moves into a new location in Capron. When they re-open Nov. 10, organizers plan to give away an extra bag of free pet food to any owner who shows they are a snap recipient.

The gesture is their way of giving back.

“I see the same cheerful faces every week. They are so appreciative of what we do. And I’ve gotten to know, you know, many of them. And it makes me feel warm inside,” Casebere said.

Both pantries are looking are looking for more volunteers. Along with food, they also are looking for collars and clothing donations.