Diocese Allocates $100,000 for Food Aid
The Diocese of Sioux City, Iowa, has responded to recent federal cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by providing emergency funds to support food assistance across 24 counties within its jurisdiction.
Emergency Fund Distribution
The diocese has allocated $2,500 to each parish, totaling nearly $100,000, to help address food insecurity. These funds were deposited into parish bank accounts in early November.
Parish Discretion on Fund Utilization
Bishop John E. Keehner instructed pastors to decide the best method of distribution within their communities, leveraging their knowledge of local food assistance programs.
“We leave the distribution of the funds to the discretion of the pastors as you will be the most familiar with your local programs and processes in serving the ‘food insecure’ in your area.”
Pastors may direct funds to community food pantries, buy gift cards or food vouchers, or enhance existing parish food programs.
Community Impact
More than 36,000 families in the diocese rely on SNAP benefits, representing around 41,000 individuals facing food insecurity.
“Just as Christ tells us ‘I was hungry and you gave me to eat,’ all of us are called to do what we can to feed the hungry, especially in light of the recent cuts to food assistance.”
This funding aims to support those affected by the reduction in federal food assistance.
Author's Summary
The Diocese of Sioux City has swiftly allocated nearly $100,000 to its parishes to combat food insecurity caused by cuts to federal SNAP benefits, empowering local pastors to address hunger in their communities.