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LAKEWOOD, Ohio — The City of Lakewood has announced the details on their SNAP Relief Program, amid concerns over the suspension of benefits during the ongoing government shutdown.
The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services announced Monday they will distribute partial SNAP benefits as early as Wednesday, and according to the release, nearly all recipients will receive less than 65% of their normal benefits.
Over the weekend, a federal court instructed the department to reduce the amount each household can receive in November. The decision to distribute benefits is following a new federal guidance from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which oversees the program.
The City of Lakewood said they are partnering with the Lakewood Foundation and Lakewood Community Services Center (LCSC).
Lakewood residents who are receiving SNAP benefits will be getting $50 Aldi gift cards, the distribution of which is being handled by the Department of Human Services.
“Working through established community partnerships, this effort will provide support to more than 1,000 Lakewood households,” the website reads. “A limited number of cards will also be made available at the Cove Community Center on a first-come basis for eligible residents. Distribution will begin the week of November 17, with additional details to be shared in advance.”
You can also make a donation to The Lakewood Foundation here. You can also donate food and other items to collection bins at City Hall, Lakewood Police Station, Cove Community Center and city fire stations.
Here’s what they’re requesting:
- “Cereals
- Canned soups
- ‘Meal in a can’ options (chili, ravioli, beef stew)
- Nutritional drinks like Ensure/Boost
- Canned or dried fruits
- Snack items
- Foil-pack proteins such as tuna or chicken”
They are also requesting other non-food items like toilet paper, toothpaste diapers and similar items.
“The City of Lakewood will begin hosting a once-a-month community meal at the Human Services building at Cove Community Center with expected capacity to feed in excess of 150 Lakewood residents,” the website reads.
The first such community meal will be at 5:30 p.m. on Dec. 3. A drive-through option will also be available.
The Senate passed legislation Monday to reopen the government, bringing the longest shutdown in history closer to an end as a small group of Democrats ratified a deal with Republicans despite searing criticism from within their party.
The 41-day shutdown could last a few more days as members of the House, which has been on recess since mid-September, return to Washington to vote on the legislation. President Donald Trump has signaled support for the bill, saying Monday that “we’re going to be opening up our country very quickly.”
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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Chrissa Loukas, Cody Thompson
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