St. Vincent de Paul hosts drive-thru donation drive amid SNAP uncertainty

BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) — SNAP benefits remain a crucial topic across the country as the government shutdown continues.

Here in Baton Rouge, St. Vincent de Paul hosted “Neighbors Helping Neighbors,” a community food drive to help local families in need.

Sunnie Johnson-Lain with St. Vincent de Paul said it’s important for her organization to step up and be part of the solution to local food insecurity in the midst of SNAP uncertainty.

“We really felt it’s critical, at this time, when our neighbors are having such a challenge, with SNAP cuts, the government shut down, and rising food costs in general,” Johnson-Lain said.

She said her organization serves over 300 people daily with hot meals, and they provide food to pantries in 12 nearby parishes.

“The demand has been very, very strong lately,” she said.

St. Vincent de Paul is encouraging community members to donate non-perishable food items and contribute financially to sustain its food programs. High-protein items like canned meats and peanut butter are in high demand.

Among the many volunteers lending a hand to sort food items donated, Baton Rouge resident Caitlin Alfred said she and her mother just want to be a part of the solution as well.

“Seeing people around the world, and in general, like on the streets, I want to be able to make an impact on them,” said Alfred. “I want to be able to help them, and supply them with what they need because life does get hard, and I think being able to have things, and being able to give back, is a big thing, and it helps with making a difference in the world.”

This food donation drive-thru event reflects St. Vincent de Paul’s commitment to supporting the most vulnerable in our area, offering food, shelter, and hope to people in crisis.

You can head to St. Vincent de Paul’s website to learn more if you would like to donate.

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