‘A lot to be grateful for’: Follow-up with East Bay couple after SNAP benefits restored

SAN LEANDRO, Calif. (KGO) — We first met Pedro and Maryanne during the government shutdown; at the time, the San Leandro couple was hoping to celebrate their engagement, but instead they were among the millions left worrying while cut off from their SNAP benefits.

We recently caught up with the couple at a holiday party at the East Bay Center for the Blind.

“It sounds like you got your SNAP benefits back – you were able to have a Thanksgiving dinner?” ABC7 News reporter Tara Campbell asked.

“Yes, we have a lot to be grateful for this year. We have food, and we have other stuff people don’t have, and it makes me feel concerned about other people,” said Maryanne Escobar.

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“It was really good. The people stepped up and if it wasn’t for that I don’t know what would have happened,” said Pedro Alvarez.

While SNAP benefits were reinstated following the reopening of the federal government, many now face a new threat under new guidance as part of President Trump’s so-called “Big Beautiful Bill” that went into effect this month, expanding work requirements and limiting access for refugees.

“I just want this interview to help other people to see if they can give other people what we have,” said Maryanne.

As for their wedding, a date is set and planning is underway.

“That’s what we’re trying to hope and clinch for the holidays, and marriage and New Year’s and everything,” said Pedro.