As we move into November, current governmental limitations are creating significant challenges that will necessitate families with lower incomes to seek new sources of health and care to obtain proper nourishment. Recent reports indicate that the federal shutdown has led to the cancellation of emergency funds for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which threatens to impact nearly 42 million Americans. In California alone, approximately 4 million residents rely on CalFresh (California’s SNAP program), and many are facing delays in their November benefits, which average around $200 per month per household. This situation underscores the urgent need for additional resources for families struggling with food insecurity.
We are currently working diligently through the Pastoral Missions Outreach Fund to provide groceries for many of these families. However, with this shift in care, we anticipate that additional needs will arise.
Please pray and actively support the Pastoral Ministerial Outreach Fund. I've been asked about the possibility of keeping food on campus, but this presents different challenges that may be difficult to sustain. We need a dedicated space to store the food, and we won’t be able to keep perishable items on-site, which families will need most.
By funding grocery cards, families will be able to purchase milk, eggs, and other perishable items that are essential for a complete and balanced diet. Studies show that access to grocery assistance programs can significantly improve food security and health outcomes for low-income families, making this support even more critical during this time of heightened need.
As November approaches, please keep these families in your thoughts and prayers, as many will find themselves in new situations of need and support.
God Is Love,
M. Andrew Davis (he/him/his)
Pastor
Temecula United Methodist Church
