Lynn, Massachusetts, has received a significant boost in its fight against food insecurity, as the United Way of Massachusetts Bay announced the allocation of $85,000 in rapid response grants to eight local organizations. This funding comes in the wake of an increased demand for food assistance, exacerbated by recent disruptions in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.
The announcement was made at My Brother’s Table, a local charity, where Jared Nicholson, Mayor of Lynn, joined representatives from the Atrius Health Equity Foundation and the United Way. The Atrius Health Equity Foundation has contributed $1 million to the United Response Fund, a statewide initiative aimed at assisting households affected by federal policy changes and the recent government shutdown.
Lynn has one of the highest rates of SNAP utilization in Massachusetts, with more than 28,500 residents—27% of the population—relying on these benefits to meet their basic needs. Mayor Nicholson emphasized the urgency of addressing food insecurity in the community, stating, “The recent disruption in SNAP benefits forced many Lynn residents to endure a time of uncertainty and fear.” He highlighted the importance of collaboration among local organizations to provide critical support to families in need.
The United Response Fund, spearheaded by the United Way in collaboration with the Healey-Driscoll Administration, aims to support Massachusetts residents whose SNAP benefits have been delayed or reduced due to recent federal policy changes that took effect on November 1, 2023. Since October 24, the United Way has actively mobilized resources to ensure access to food and assist nonprofit organizations in adapting to heightened demand.
Marty Martinez, president and CEO of the United Way of Massachusetts Bay, stated, “Families are being forced into impossible choices as they face rising costs and reduced support for food, heat, housing, and health care.” He expressed gratitude for the partnership with the Atrius Health Equity Foundation, noting that their support is vital in providing immediate relief and ensuring families can thrive.
Dr. Ann Hwang, president of the Atrius Health Equity Foundation, stressed the link between food access and health, remarking, “Access to food is an essential part of good health. When families face disruptions to essential supports like SNAP, the consequences ripple across every aspect of their well-being.” The Foundation is committed to advancing health equity and is honored to support Massachusetts households during this critical period.
The organizations receiving grants from the United Response Fund include the Boys & Girls Club of Lynn, Building Audacity, Good Hope Inc., LEO Inc., Lynn Community Health, My Brother’s Table, the New American Association of Massachusetts, and Pathways, Inc. These funds will enhance the local Rapid Response Network’s capacity to assist those in need.
Dianne Kuzia Hills, executive director at My Brother’s Table, remarked on the human impact of food insecurity, saying, “When we talk about food insecurity at the scale we currently see in Lynn, it’s easy to get lost in numbers and forget the real human stories and the panic and suffering people feel when they’re unable to feed themselves or their families.” She highlighted the critical nature of local support in alleviating stress for families experiencing food insecurity.
Prior to this funding round, the United Way of Massachusetts Bay had already invested $30,000 in three Lynn-based organizations: Centerboard, Greater Lynn Senior Services, and Lynn Housing and Neighborhood Development (LHAND). With the latest announcement, the total investment in Lynn through the United Response Fund has reached $115,000.
The United Response Fund grants are designed to support families in various ways, including:
– **Increased capacity at local food pantries:** Supporting organizations to expand inventory, extend operating hours, and establish new emergency distribution sites and mobile pantries.
– **Direct financial relief:** Issuing grocery store gift cards and vouchers ranging from $20 to $600 to help families purchase essential items.
– **Culturally appropriate food options:** Ensuring food access that reflects the diversity and dignity of local communities.
State Senator Brendan Crighton remarked on the necessity of filling gaps in federal support, thanking the United Way and Atrius Health Equity Foundation for their partnership with local organizations. State Representative Jenny Armini emphasized the importance of this investment in assisting families during turbulent times.
The statistics surrounding SNAP in Massachusetts highlight the urgency of the situation: over 1.1 million residents depend on SNAP for food, including 32% who are children, 26% seniors, and 31% individuals with disabilities. Approximately 21,000 SNAP recipients are veterans, illustrating the widespread impact of food insecurity in the community.
As the demand for food assistance continues, the collaborative efforts of local organizations, government officials, and philanthropic foundations aim to mitigate the effects of rising living costs and ensure that no one goes hungry in Lynn and beyond.
