LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WAVE) – More than half a million Kentuckians could lose access to SNAP food assistance if the federal government shutdown continues, leaving families across Louisville worried about how they’ll feed their children.
For many parents, the uncertainty is already taking an emotional toll.
“My babies, they get fed at school,” said Promise English, a mother of three. “But then they come home and they rely on meals to fill their bellies at home. So, it’s stressful. I’ve already thought about what I’m going to do come November.”
SNAP benefits are set to expire Nov. 1 if Congress fails to reach an agreement to end the shutdown.
“It’s going to be a struggle for sure,” English said. “But I think between food banks and family, we should be able to make it through for sure. And our babies should have full bellies.”
Other parents are less optimistic.
“Government shut it down? It’s over, like, in a minute for me,” said Erika Starks, a single mother of four boys with another baby on the way.
Starks lost her job two weeks ago, and the possibility of losing her SNAP benefits has her feeling overwhelmed. “A lot of pressure,” she said quietly.
Local food banks are also bracing for impact. SNAP benefits account for roughly $16 million in food purchases each month in Jefferson County alone, according to Dare to Care Food Bank.
“But, you know, we can’t fill that gap,” said Vincent James, Dare to Care’s President and CEO. “We’ll have to rely on our community to step up.”
For Starks, food banks may soon become her only lifeline.
“That’s all I have. I don’t have anybody else, just me,” she said, holding back tears. “Don’t make me cry. It’s going to be okay. I’m going to figure it out. I promise you. I always do.”
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