As SNAP Benefits Disappear, Volunteers and Food Pantries Fill the Gap
July 21, 2026
21 July 2026 | NewsTalk New England | Tiffany Williams
NEW YORK — Before sunrise, the line had already formed.
Not outside a concert.
Not outside a stadium.
Outside a food pantry.
People began arriving as early as 5 a.m.
The doors would not open until 10.
For five hours, they waited.
The line stretched down the block, crossed an avenue and continued for two more blocks.
Every person in line had a story.
Every family had a reason for being there.
Across the country, food banks and pantries say they are preparing for growing demand as changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program continue to take effect.