Local advocate wants to bring Baton Rouge together as SNAP benefits end

BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) — As the final day for SNAP benefits arrives, many families in Baton Rouge are turning to local organizations for help, and community leaders say now is the time to step up.

“The more that we’re able to shed light on number one, the issue of food insecurity, shed light on the resources that help aid in food insecurity, then we have those who are in need who are able to benefit from those resources,” said Dorcas Brandon, Associate Director of Red Shoes.

In a city like Baton Rouge, where nearly one in five people face food insecurity, advocates like Brandon think awareness is key.

“The best thing that we can do is spread the awareness of this resource and others and reach out and make partnerships,” said Brandon.

As SNAP benefits fade away, partnerships between nonprofits, small businesses, and residents are becoming a lifeline.

“This is, if any time, the time that the community needs to come together and support each other,” she said.

That unity is being felt across social media, where local businesses and influencers are joining forces to help.

“Look at what’s going on right now and on social media and different businesses and social media influencers, and organizations, so many people are joining together to create this web of community,” she said.

While today marks the last day for SNAP Benefits for many, organizers say the impact of this moment can last far longer if the community keeps working together.

“This can be a long-term effect of look at what happens when we band together and continue to support each other. So that is the effect that I would love to see,” Brandon said.

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