Press Contact:
Laura Brooks
lbrooks@godspantry.org
606-584-4572
Statement from Michael Halligan, President and CEO of God’s Pantry Food Bank, on Federal Shutdown
Nearly 17,000 federal workers live in the 50 counties served by God's Pantry Food Bank.
Food insecurity in Central and Eastern Kentucky is already at historic highs—and a government shutdown threatens to make it worse. Missed paychecks for civilian and military employees, as well as federal contractors, could jeopardize their ability to afford food and other essentials. A prolonged shutdown will likely increase demand on our partner food pantries and meal programs on top of the current sustained high need.
A prolonged shutdown could also disrupt federal nutrition programs, such as SNAP, WIC, and TEFAP, further straining the Food Bank.
God’s Pantry Food Bank will continue to serve our community, but we can’t do it alone. Now more than ever, we must rely on the support of our donors and stand united—lawmakers, businesses, faith groups, and individuals—to ensure no Kentuckian goes without the food they need to thrive.
If you or someone you know is experiencing hunger, visit www.godspantry.org/help for a list of resources near you.