More than 9,000 people in Ontario County could soon face food insecurity if federal SNAP benefits are delayed or interrupted after Nov. 1.
That’s why local agencies are already preparing for a possible spike in need, bringing nonprofits, food pantries, and community groups together this week to coordinate their response.
Ontario Cares, the Partnership for Ontario County, is leading the effort. Executive Director Gwen Van Laeken said the goal is to keep residents calm while making sure support systems are in place.
“We’re hopeful that policymakers will reach a resolution soon, but it’s important that our community is ready to support one another if needed,” Van Laeken said.
Many of the 5,000+ SNAP-reliant households in the county include working families. But their wages still aren’t enough to cover basic needs like food, rent, and utilities.
Local food pantries expect more residents will turn to them if SNAP support runs dry — and they’re asking for the public’s help in advance.
Financial donations are the most efficient way to support pantries, according to Ontario Cares. That’s because they can stretch every dollar further through wholesale and regional food bank partnerships.
Pantries also welcome direct food donations, especially shelf-stable items like:
- Canned tuna, chicken, and peanut butter
- Whole grains like brown rice and oatmeal
- Canned or dried fruit in juice, low-sodium vegetables
- Hearty soups and easy-to-prepare meals
- Cooking staples like olive oil, spices, or shelf-stable milk
If you’re not sure where to donate, Foodlink is coordinating broader regional relief efforts.
Residents who need food support can call 2-1-1 or visit 211lifeline.org to find nearby resources.
Ontario Cares also recommends checking with individual pantries before dropping off donations, since many are volunteer-run and operate on limited schedules.
“At times like this, it’s all about neighbors looking out for one another,” Van Laeken said. “By connecting neighbors and empowering our community, we can make sure every family has food on the table.”
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to [email protected].