In a proactive measure to support its community, Baltimore is stepping up to provide critical assistance to residents and workers as they face the loss of their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, which is set to take effect on November 1. This initiative comes in the context of an ongoing government shutdown that has left many in a precarious situation.
On October 28, Mayor Brandon Scott of Baltimore unveiled a strategic plan that will allocate $4.6 million to assist those affected. Speaking at The Food Project in Southwest Baltimore, Scott expressed a strong commitment to addressing immediate needs during this period of uncertainty. The allocation seeks to ensure that crucial resources such as food, child care, and rental assistance remain accessible to the thousands impacted.
“None of those things should ever be on the table — ever,” Scott asserted, emphasizing his role as an advocate for the welfare of the city’s residents. His comments resonate particularly with the backdrop of Baltimore’s approximately 12,000 federal workers, who are feeling the direct consequences of the budget impasse in Washington.
The urgency of the situation is underscored by the looming deadline when SNAP cards are expected to go unreplenished due to the federal government shutdown. On average, this vital program helps more than 42 million Americans maintain sustenance each month. However, with Congress failing to approve a new budget, the U.S. Department of Agriculture faces a substantial legal hurdle in disbursing November payments to beneficiaries.
In a well-rounded approach to alleviate some of the burden caused by this crisis, the Mayor’s Office will direct $1 million toward child care costs specifically for essential federal workers who are currently working without compensation. Additionally, this fund will also provide support for families who qualify for SNAP. This demonstrates a multifaceted strategy to ensure that basic needs are met, particularly for those most vulnerable during these times.
Furthermore, about $1.7 million will be used to bolster food distribution efforts. Several local organizations, including the Maryland Food Bank and the Baltimore City Health Department’s Home Delivered Food Box Program, will benefit from this initiative. Affiliated programs like the Department of Planning’s Produce Box Distribution Program, So What Else in West and Southwest Baltimore, and the Baltimore Hunger Project will also receive funding to help bridge the gap in food security.
Another $1 million will be designated for rental assistance, targeting unpaid federal employees and SNAP recipients whose housing stability is at risk due to financial challenges. This measure seeks to provide a safety net at a time when many families are struggling to make ends meet.
Mayor Scott starkly highlighted the burden often placed on local governments, noting, “While we don’t have the funds to fill every gap, local government is being forced to clean up the mess made by Republicans in Washington, just like we did many, many times before.” His remarks reflect a growing concern among city leaders regarding the broader implications of federal inaction on local communities.