HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – Days after legally challenging the unlawful suspension of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, Gov. Andy Beshear announced on Oct. 31 that a federal judge has ruled in favor of Kentucky and 24 other states who demanded that funding be restored. The benefits were initially paused due to the ongoing government shutdown.
“It’s my job as Governor to stand up for Kentuckians, and I am thankful today’s rulings were in favor of helping the more than 40 million Americans and almost 600,000 Kentuckians – many of whom are children – access benefits that will provide them food and prevent hunger,” said Gov. Beshear in a news release.
In preparation of any delays for the restoration of benefits, Gov. Beshear signed an executive order to direct an initial $5 million from the budget reserve trust fund to Feeding Kentucky food banks. In his executive order, Beshear directs the Kentucky Division of Emergency Management to “work with the Office of the State Budget Director to identify, allocate, and transfer funds as necessary from available sources to support the food banks during the lapse of SNAP funding.” The Cabinet for Health and Family Services is then instructed to provide the identified funds to Feeding Kentucky, according to a news release from the Governor’s office.
Local resources in Hopkinsville as benefits are restored, shutdown continues
As the government shutdown surpasses a month, there are several organizations and businesses in Hopkinsville that are assisting families during a time of financial uncertainty, along with places who are soliciting donations.
1. Boys & Girls Club of Hopkinsville-Christian County
The local Club is hosting a food drive as they see an increase of youth due to the government shutdown. People can donate online or drop off non-perishable food items at their location at 1600 Walnut Street. Most needed items include canned vegetables or meat, rice, pasta, cereal, soup, peanut butter, ramen noodles, and individually wrapped snack.
“We want to make sure kids do not go to bed hungry. Your donation helps us provide meals to local youth who need it most.”
On Nov. 8, they will be hosting their monthly food distribution which is available to Christian County residents. The distribution will be held at the Western Kentucky Fairgrounds from 8-10 a.m.
“Anyone picking up for another household must provide that household’s name, address, and the total number of household members. Please have ID available upon request.”
3. Hopkinsville Brewing Company
Hopkinsville Brewing Company in downtown Hopkinsville will be offering free meals and kids meals to the community until benefits are fully restored. These will be available at their onsite food truck during regular business hours.
“This offer will be available until SNAP benefits are restored. Children must be present, and this offer is limited to one meal per child 13 and under per day.”
4. Davo’s
Davo’s restaurant on Canton Street in Hopkinsville is offering free sandwich meals to children in the community starting Nov. 3.
“Children must be present as this offer is limited to one meal per child, per day 13 and under. Please pull up to our Pickup window and ask for one of the SNAP meals as this will be for to-go only due to our limited dining room space.”