10/28/2025
VAC SEES INCREASE IN NEEDS AS SNAP BENEFITS TO CEASE; DONATIONS BEING ACCEPTED NOW: With SNAP benefits, also known as food stamps, not being available in November due to the current government shutdown, Voluntary Action Center Director Miranda Bentley and her staff are working diligently to assist those who are food insecure in our community, and preparing for a large influx of those needing food assistance next month.
“I had over 20 brand new families, who have never used our services before, sign up for the food pantry today,” said Bentley on Friday, Oct. 24, 2025.
The USDA last week notified the public that SNAP benefits would cease for November if the federal shutdown continued.
Due to the lack of SNAP benefits, the VAC is stepping in to help those who will need food assistance.
“We are in need of canned goods, cereal, cereal bars and pasta at this time,” said Bentley. “We really don’t know what’s going to happen in November with food stamps, so we, as a nonprofit, are prepared for it. My staff and the VAC Board have been talking and are coming up with a game plan to meet these needs in our community.”
How can the public help? The VAC will be in great need of donations for their food pantry. Canned goods and non-perishable food items, especially proteins like canned meats, can be donated to the VAC, located at 343 South Wall Street in Calhoun. You can also donate monetarily by visiting http://www.voluntaryactioncenter.org/
Do you need help with food? The Food Pantry is open on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., no appointment required. Individuals can request food assistance once every 30 days. To receive food individuals must live in Gordon County and fall at or below 180% of the Federal Poverty Income Guidelines. To qualify, individuals must provide a picture ID, 30 days' proof of income for the entire household, and proof of Gordon County residency by presenting a utility bill, lease agreement, or rent receipt. To sign up, visit the VAC, located at 343 South Wall Street in Calhoun.
READ MORE: https://www.gordongazettega.com/post/vac-sees-increase-in-needs-as-snap-benefits-to-cease-in-november-due-to-shutdown-donations-being-ac
