UPDATE: The People’s Pantry in Great Barrington is facing an unprecedented surge in demand as local residents grapple with recent Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) cuts. Just this month, the pantry has seen its client numbers skyrocket, serving 904 individuals in the last week of October alone.
With 45 percent of households in Berkshire County already experiencing food insecurity, the recent SNAP reductions, which slashed benefits by 20 percent, have left many families scrambling to meet their basic needs. The average daily benefit now stands at just $6.40 per person, which often runs out within weeks, forcing tough choices between food, rent, and utilities.
“Most of our clients were already worried about food insecurity, but this feels like the last straw,” says Laura Gratz, board president of The People’s Pantry. The nonprofit is now busier than ever, with lines stretching out the door on distribution days. Last year, the pantry served 290 families for Thanksgiving; this year, they provided the makings for 400 Thanksgiving dinners.
Community support has flooded in, with more than 22 area businesses and organizations stepping up to help. Silke Aisenbrey, board vice president for operations, notes, “While it’s awesome that everyone is giving us help, we expect this to be an ongoing need for the next several years.”
The pantry operates from Saint James Place on Monday afternoons and Thursday mornings, offering an open-choice shopping experience that respects the dignity of its clients. “To be a shopper, the only requirement is waiting in line,” Gratz explains, emphasizing their commitment to providing healthy food options.
Despite the overwhelming generosity from the community, the pantry is facing increased operating costs, exacerbated by inflation and supply chain issues. “We have a tiny space, but we make it work,” Gratz says, highlighting the need for long-term commitments to sustain operations in the face of rising demand.
The emotional impact is palpable among recipients. One pantry user expressed gratitude, stating, “The people here always make me feel good. I’m very grateful. Nobody looks down their nose at me here.” This sentiment underscores the pantry’s role in fostering community resilience amid hardship.
As the holiday season approaches, food insecurity in the region is expected to persist. The People’s Pantry is calling for additional support and donations to meet the ongoing needs of their community. Interested individuals can contribute through their website or volunteer time to help keep the pantry’s doors open.
What’s Next: The People’s Pantry is preparing for a challenging winter, with plans to expand its outreach and support for local families. As inflation continues to strain resources, community involvement will be crucial to alleviating food insecurity in Great Barrington and beyond.
For more information and to support The People’s Pantry, visit their official website.
