Thousands in Macon, Middle GA are without SNAP benefits. Here’s how you can help.

Thousands of people across Middle Georgia are facing greater difficult to keep food on the table after Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits didn’t go out on Nov. 1 due to the ongoing government shutdown.

SNAP benefits come from the U.S. Department of Agriculture funds that are distributed to households by state governments.

President Donald Trump’s administration promised to cover 65% of the maximum benefit, but that still would’ve left many Americans without SNAP. A federal judge ordered the administration Thursday to fully fund SNAP.

Meanwhile, families and communities are struggling to make up the gap. In Bibb County, 23% of residents relied on SNAP benefits in 2024, according to the Georgia Budget and Policy Institute.

Kathy McCollum, director of the Middle Georgia Community Food Bank, said SNAP benefits play an important role in combating food insecurity, and nonprofits are expecting waves of people in need due to their pause. She said that for every meal provided by a nonprofit in Georgia, another six meals are provided through SNAP benefits.

“We’re doing what we can and trying to encourage more resources to come to us,” McCollum said.

Are you looking for ways to help? The Telegraph has listed some actions you can take to help families who rely on SNAP benefits.

Donate to food banks and pantries

Food banks and pantries play a critical role in supplying food to households experiencing food insecurity.

McCollum said food banks were already seeing high demand before the government shutdown, and SNAP benefits being paused will only exacerbate it. Many of those organizations are looking to the community for assistance.

McCollum said that monetary donations go the furthest, but the Middle Georgia Community Food Bank can also take donated food. Food that is donated to or purchased by the food bank is then sent out to pantries and partner organizations who distribute it to those in need.

Many food pantries are also accepting donations. Loaves and Fishes in downtown Macon has information online about donating, and many places of worship in Middle Georgia operate pantries. Give them a call to see what they need from the community.

Check with local businesses

Local businesses have also stepped up to help neighbors who may be struggling while SNAP benefits are paused.

A group of businesses in Middle Georgia including Village Coffee and the Bohemian Den in Macon, have come together to collect donations.

To participate, visit Tommy Campbell’s Collision Center, Grow, The Bohemian Den, The Growler Spot or Village Coffee during their regular business hours and bring nonperishable food items to donate.

Talk to your local officials

While the federal government is shut down, local and state governments remain in operation.

In Middle Georgia, local leaders have sought to help residents struggling without SNAP benefits by running food drives, dipping into public funds and partnering with local organizations.

Macon-Bibb County announced Wednesday it would donate $150,000 to 11 local organizations that provide food and other essential supplies to those in need.

Meanwhile, in Houston County, Warner Robins announced a city-wide food drive to collect non-perishable food items, cleaning products and personal hygiene and baby care supplies. Donations can be dropped off at select fire stations in the area Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Reach out to your local government to see if they are running any initiatives to assist SNAP recipients.

This story was originally published November 7, 2025 at 7:06 AM.