BATON ROUGE, La. (WAFB) – Multiple food establishments are participating in the effort to help people experiencing hardship due to benefit disruptions.
The Charles R. Kelly Community Center has become a central hub for the relief effort, serving hot meals and food boxes. The facility has seen an influx of new visitors, including Kenneth Pitts.
“They cut our food stamps off, so I’m thankful for them because nobody has food this month,” Pitts said.
Metro Councilman Darryl Hurst said the community center typically distributes 90 food boxes a month. This month, that number has doubled due to the government shutdown.
“It’s a beacon of hope and a shelter,” Hurst said.
The city-parish’s newest initiative, “A Table for All,” along with additional community support, has enabled the community center to meet the growing demand.
“To ensure that our daily needs are met, but the additional population has what they need as well,” Hurst said.
The community center serves hot meals every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Residents needing food boxes can show up and get on the list, according to Hurst.
“Don’t let pride get in the way of the hunger pains in your stomach. We’re here for you if you need a food box or a hot meal,” Hurst said.
The assistance helps fill gaps for people like Pitts until their benefits return.
“I’ve been coming here, and they’ve been good to me, so I haven’t left. It’s been all good for me,” Pitts said.
Multiple food establishments around town are providing free meals to SNAP recipients for the rest of the week, including the community center.
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