SOUTHWICK — When it appeared the U.S. Department of Agriculture would pause SNAP benefits for November because of the government shutdown, beneficiaries were worried and confused about what would happen to them, Our Community Food Pantry helped calm their fears and offered food to everyone in need.
HUNTINGTON — While SNAP benefits hadn’t been paused yet — which happened Nov. 1 — the director of the Huntington Food Pantry said that when it opened on Oct. 30, at least of one-third of those seeking food assistance were new.
SOUTHWICK — During the Conservation Commission’s meeting on Nov. 3, the commissioners continued the planning of revegetating the eroded areas of the North Pond Conservation Area, and approved supporting a bill working through the Statehouse that would fine contractors who perform work on private property without a permit.
WESTFIELD — William D. Byrne, the bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Springfield visited the St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry at St. Mary’s Parish on Nov. 6 to issue a call to arms to the community to help those struggling with food insecurity as a result of the cut in SNAP benefits.
WESTFIELD — SNAP benefits for nearly 42 million Americans were paused on Nov. 1, leaving struggling families and individuals with few places to turn for help, which is the mission of the Westfield Food Pantry and they’re ready.