Losing SNAP? Or want to help? Here are some Tennessee resources

Tennesseans enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program should get at least some benefits this month, but the details are still unclear.

A federal court ordered the Trump Administration to tap a contingency fund as the shutdown continues. But, the administration said Monday that it would only fund benefits halfway, and they’ll likely come late. The court cases are ongoing, as plaintiffs argue the partial payments are insufficient.

President Donald Trump posted to Truth Social on Tuesday that his administration would refuse to deliver the aid until the shutdown ended, contradicting the court order. But a few hours later, his press secretary walked the threat back, according to the Associated Press. She said the administration will fully comply with the court order.

In the meantime, WPLN compiled a list of community resources for those who need help and those who want to give it.

For those who need help

• Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee has an interactive map that shows food box sites, food panties, places with on-site meals and more.
• The state launched FeedTN.org with several organizations — including Second Harvest, United Way and Catholic Charities — as well as the governor’s Faith-Based and Community Initiative. It’s a single-entry platform connecting people in every county to trusted, local food relief efforts.
• Here’s a list of West Tennessee food resources from The Department of Human Services.
• Franklin-based nonprofit One Generation Away (OneGenAway) is mobilizing a large-scale emergency food response as more than 690,000 Tennesseans lose access to SNAP benefits beginning November 1.
• GraceWorks Ministries, a Williamson County nonprofit that provides wraparound services to neighbors in need, is preparing for double the amount of neighbors entering their doors this month. They believe the need will not only be food, but other necessities, like rent and utilities, that will be affected by a food budget deficit.

From Metro Nashville

• Meal distribution for Metro employees: a drive-thru giveaway will be held every Friday, beginning Nov. 7. They’ll be held 1-4 p.m. and Metro ID is required.
• There’s a limited supply of Food Access Cards for families enrolled in Metro’s case management program and need help purchasing food.

For those who want to help

• Gideon’s Army is holding a food drive at 1625 23rd Ave. North in Nashville. You can see the days and times here. Or you can give to Gideon’s Army.
• Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee is responding through Hunger Can’t Wait: A Community Response to SNAP disruptions by reallocating resources, ramping up food distributions, and strengthening partnerships. Every dollar donated helps provide nutritious food and hope for families facing hunger.
• HandsOn Nashville, which is powered by the United Way of Greater Nashville, is a community resource for those interested in volunteering. The “Season of Giving” initiative is underway. Opportunities include working at distribution sites, driving for grocery drop off and working in food pantries.

This list is a work in progress. If you have aid or volunteer opportunities you’d like to add, please email [email protected].