New SNAP Resource Offices Open in Chautauqua and Niagara County
We’re excited to announce the opening of two new SNAP resource offices, one in Chautauqua County and another in Niagara County. These offices provide confidential and welcoming spaces where individuals can ask questions and learn more about the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). With regular office hours each week provided by our SNAP team members Brooke Barone and Kristina Markey, these spaces are a convenient resource for those who would like to learn more about SNAP and/or need help signing up for SNAP.
In Chautauqua County, FeedMore WNY has partnered with Catholic Charities in Jamestown; and in Niagara County, we have partnered with The Dale Association in Lockport to offer this service to the respective communities. This collaboration between FeedMore WNY and Catholic Charities and The Dale Association in Lockport will allow us to break down barriers for those in need and allow for wraparound services to be provided.
“The Dale Association is excited to partner with FeedMore WNY to raise awareness about SNAP benefits and food insecurity,” said Gretchen Doty, Senior Center Director at The Dale Association. “We will help to effectively communicate the critical need for SNAP benefits.”
We are proud to expand our reach through these new offices and partnerships, creating brighter futures for those struggling with food insecurity across Western New York. Feeding America’s Map, the Meal Gap reports that Niagara County has an overall food insecurity rate of 12.6%, and Chautauqua County has a rate of 15%. Furthermore, many eligible adults are not enrolled in SNAP in these areas. This is why FeedMore WNY’s newest partnerships in both counties are so crucial to helping our neighbors in need.
“When it comes to helping those in need, working collaboratively with our partners in the community is essential to providing a person-centered, comprehensive approach to the challenges they face. Working side-by-side strengthens and enriches the help we can both provide – eliminating obstacles like transportation and creating access to a wider range of critical services,”Deacon Steve Schumer, President & CEO for Catholic Charities, said.
For those with mobility or transportation issues, Brooke and Kristina will still meet with clients at their residences on a case-by-case basis. If you would like to learn more about our snap outreach efforts, by clicking here.