Dennis Radliff's experience taking the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program's Food Stamp Challenge raises awareness and invites more dialogue on the need, and how we can work together to address hunger in our community ("A week using food stamps proves eating isn't a SNAP," June 6).
The SNAP program, vital to our low-income neighbors, is not the only resource for those struggling to make ends meet. Ninety percent of SNAP benefits are redeemed by the third week of the month, leaving many to seek additional assistance from food pantries.
The 127,000 meals the FOCUS food pantry provides annually represents 5 percent of the food that is provided by our 53-member coalition, The Food Pantries for the Capital District. In 2012, our members distributed enough food in Albany, Rensselaer and southern Saratoga counties to provide 2.5 million meals for approximately 50,000-60,000 residents, a 7.6 percent increase from 2011. Thirty-eight percent of those served were infants and children and 8 percent were seniors.
With people seeking assistance increasing and potential SNAP cuts, charity cannot do it alone. Community involvement is essential. Volunteers, food and fund drives provide much-needed support, especially when a $1 donation can provide more than 6 pounds of food. No one should go hungry.
Natasha Pernicka
executive director, The Food Pantries, Albany