In the midst of a government shutdown, charities galvanize to feed people as SNAP benefits are under threat. In the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the debit-cards that many families use to buy food may not be reloaded after Nov. 1 if the federal government shutdown continues.
Here in Charles County, Maryland, roughly 16,075 average participants/month participate in SNAP according to Maryland Hunger Solutions. 42 million Americans receive grocery assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
The state of Maryland has issued a crisis response offering emergency assistance to federal workers including housing assistance, utility assistance and emergency interest-free loans.
Food banks nationwide are bracing for what Associated Press described as “an unprecedented spike in demand they’ll have to navigate with decreased federal aid.
Local Charities Call for Help for Families Facing Food Insecurity
In Southern Maryland, organizations are already seeing that pressure. LifeStyles of Maryland shared this on Instagram:
With delayed paychecks, paused benefits and rising costs, many households are stepping into uncharted territory. And the local food-charity network braces for it.
Demond and Portia Taylor, pastors of Victory Christian Ministries International–Charles County, have met with their food distribution coordinator to prepare for what they anticipate will be a record-setting food distribution on November 8.
“We’re deeply concerned about the welfare of our community and want to serve in ways that make a real difference for families—especially those facing food insecurity,” said Pastor Portia Taylor.
They are also exploring new ways to support the community this season.
Charles County Food Pantries & Distributions
If you or someone you know is in need—or you’re looking for ways to help—here are key locations in Charles County:
- LifeStyles of Maryland Foundation 101 Catalpa Drive, Suite 103, La Plata (301) 609-9900 Mon–Fri 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
- Southern Maryland Food Bank 22 Irongate Drive, Waldorf (301) 274-0695
- Victory Christian Ministries International-Charles County 4415 Crain Highway, White Plains, MD 20695, 301-645-5171 | 2nd Saturday of each month between April & December, 11:00am-1:00p
- Hughesville Baptist Church Food Pantry 8505 Old Leonardtown Rd, Hughesville (301) 274-3672
- St. Ignatius Church – Chapel Point Pantry 8855 Chapel Point Road, Port Tobacco (301) 934-8245
- New Hope AME Church Pantry 12310 Washington Square, Waldorf Thursdays 11 a.m.–2 p.m.
- Calvary Gospel Church Pantry 11150 Berry Road, Waldorf (301) 843-5588
- Nanjemoy Community Center 4375 Port Tobacco Road, Nanjemoy (301) 743-7313
- Good Shepherd Church of God in Christ Pantry 2175 Old Washington Rd, Waldorf (301) 843-6090
- St. Joseph Catholic Church Pantry 4590 St. Joseph Way, Pomfret (301) 934-8245
- Greater Mt. Nebo AME Church (Satellite Distribution) Serving Charles County residents
How to Help – How to Act
Local organizations are calling on you to:
- Donate non-perishable items, grocery store gift cards, or monetary donations to LifeStyles of Maryland or any of the listed pantries.
- Volunteer your time—packing, sorting, delivering.
- Spread the word: tell your neighbors, share verified links, and check in on someone you know may be struggling.
One donation, one extra check-in call, one hour of your time can help someone keep food on the table. In this moment, that matters.
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