The recent suspension of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits has left millions of Americans grappling with food insecurity. Among the hardest hit are approximately 5.5 million Californians who rely on CalFresh, California’s version of SNAP. In response, the Concord-based nonprofit White Pony Express (WPE) has initiated a significant emergency effort, launching a countywide food drive that will run through November 30, 2023.
WPE is calling upon residents, schools, faith organizations, and local businesses to contribute shelf-stable food and monetary donations to alleviate the impact of this federal aid suspension. The organization’s chief executive officer, Eve Birge, expressed her shock at the SNAP announcement, stating, “You don’t leave families without a lifeline and hope this calamity sorts itself out.” Within hours of the announcement, Birge and her team mobilized into “emergency response mode,” prioritizing support for public pantries that would likely see increased demand.
During a visit to WPE’s headquarters on November 3, California Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis praised the organization for its swift action. She remarked, “Donald Trump’s government shutdown has ripped away SNAP benefits from 5.5 million Californians who rely on them to put food on the table.” Kounalakis highlighted WPE as a model for local leadership and collaboration during times of crisis. She also announced that the state is fast-tracking $80 million in funds to support food bank operations amid the crisis.
Birge emphasized the immediate need in Contra Costa County, where families face difficult choices regarding rent, transportation, and food. “We’re seeing first-time visitors who never imagined needing help. This is especially true for federal workers,” she noted. The organization’s current effort is unprecedented, combining various channels for food and funds to stabilize households in the short term.
WPE is specifically requesting donations of shelf-stable proteins like tuna, beans, and nut butters, along with staples like rice, pasta, and canned vegetables. Monetary contributions are also crucial, as they enable WPE to address gaps quickly. “Every dollar helps WPE secure and deliver nutritious food,” Birge stated. Despite a generous outpouring of community support, she acknowledged that the demand continues to outpace supply.
The community response has been encouraging, with workplaces organizing food drives and new volunteers stepping up to help. Birge described the spirit of collaboration as inspiring, but she stressed that the needs are escalating. “Hunger affects everyone, not just those directly impacted by the SNAP freeze,” she explained.
WPE collaborates with various partners, including schools, shelters, and clinics, to ensure food reaches those in need. “Every partner helps the food get to the right doorstep,” Birge said, emphasizing the importance of community involvement.
As legal challenges surrounding the SNAP suspension unfold, Birge reaffirmed WPE’s commitment to addressing immediate needs. “While courts and policymakers work, our job is to feed people—now,” she asserted. She described local nonprofits as critical stabilizers during crises, providing essential support to households.
Birge’s message to the community is clear: food distribution is the pressing issue at hand. “Food is abundant, and hunger is a logistics problem,” she said. WPE’s mission is to resolve this issue with compassion and precision. “Join the drive, become a monthly donor, bring your team to volunteer. Together, we can make sure no neighbor goes to bed hungry.”
