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With tens of thousands of Long Islanders bracing for the loss of their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits in November, a Mount Sinai restaurant is stepping up to lend a hand to those affected.
Struggletown BBQ announced that it will provide free meals to individuals and families who rely on SNAP, the federal program that helps low-income households afford food.
The timing comes as the federal government shutdown has led to a halt in SNAP benefit payments nationwide; SNAP checks will stop coming on Nov. 1. SNAP assists about one in eight Americans in affording nutritious food, and experts warn that heading into the holiday season the pause could put significant pressure on many families.
“Until further notice or whenever the SNAP program is reinstated,” Struggletown ownership said in an Insagram post, “any person who is currently receiving SNAP benefits can stop in our restaurant in Mount Sinai and you and any children with you will receive one free pulled pork or pulled chicken sandwich and a beverage. No questions asked.”
Those seeking assistance will only need to show a SNAP card and identification.
GoFundMe to keep it going
To help offset costs associated with the philanthropic effort, the restaurant has kicked off a GoFundMe fundraiser.
“Your contribution will help us reach out to as many people as possible and help feed them while their benefits are no longer available,” Struggletown says on the GoFundMe page. “All money raised will go DIRECTLY towards the purchase of food for those who need a meal.”
The effort has raised more than $6,000 from 141 donations as of Wednesday night.
The eatery, located at 1028 Route 25A, also said that if the suspension of benefits continues into the Thanksgiving holiday, it will offer a free Thanksgiving meal to families who have lost access to SNAP and need help putting food on the table.
The Instagram post said that families in need can contact the restaurant and ask for John at 631.235.2648 to make arrangements.
“Please understand we may need to adjust this plan or alter the offerings as this plays out,” the post stated. “But it’s the least we can do right now to help those who need a helping hand — and nobody should go without food.”
Top photos: Facebook/Struggletown
