Access to food

In today’s world, food insecurity is a harsh reality for many individuals and families. Needing food while lacking the ability to afford it can be an overwhelming and distressing situation. However, there are several avenues and resources available to assist those in need. Here are some suggestions on how to address the issue of food affordability when financial resources are limited without resorting to breaking the law or violating your neighbor.

Local food banks and food pantries play a huge role in supporting people experiencing food insecurity. These organizations provide free or low-cost groceries to those in need. Research and identify the food banks and pantries in your area, and reach out to them for assistance. Some people have collected this information and posted it online. Connect Mat-Su, a local clearinghouse of support agencies and services, lists these locations at https://www.connectmatsu.org/serviceclass/food/. Panties often have specific eligibility criteria, so make sure to ask about what the need or their procedures before you drive there to access their services.

There are several government agencies that various assistance programs to help individuals facing financial hardship. Programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which is also known as food stamps, provide eligible participants with monthly funds to purchase groceries. Visit your local public assistance office or check their website to determine the eligibility criteria and application process for such programs. The State of Alaska Public Assistance Division has a Mat-Su Division office that can be reached at 888-269-6520 and is located at 855 W. Commercial Drive in Wasilla.

Community meal programs, such as soup kitchens or community centers, often provide hot meals to individuals in need. There is large soup kitchen like Bean’s Café in the Mat-Su but there are a lot of churches that provide free meals on certain days. There are also some that can provide a meal on demand. Call a local place of worship to you and ask about whether this is a service they provide, their schedules, and find out what requirements they may have. If specific churches make you uncomfortable, there are many non-denominational religious centers in the Mat-Su as well. These charity programs offer a sense of community and support while ensuring that individuals have access to nutritious meals. Some of these locations also offer other services such as showers, printers, and job help if you are needing to use any.

There are also often holiday meals at nearly all churches, and the awesome Christmas Friendship Dinner which is secular.

One of the nonprofits in the Mat-Su, Kids Kupboard, offers daily food service throughout the Mat-Su and other areas of Alaska. This private nonprofit organization offers fresh food and has a delivery program where they drive to at least 16 sites where kids can come eat at no cost. Their information can be found at www.kidskupboard.org.

Social service agencies and non-profit organizations sometimes have programs designed to help individuals in need. These programs may offer emergency food assistance, meal vouchers, or even temporary financial aid. Research and contact organizations in your community to inquire about the available resources and how to access them.

Charities and religious institutions often have outreach programs to support individuals struggling with food insecurity. They may provide food boxes, groceries, or meal vouchers. Reach out to places of worship to inquire about their programs and availability, and any requirements they may have for your use of those services.

Reach out to friends, family, and neighbors who may be willing to help during times of financial difficulty. We have all been there at some point in our lives where we needed to ask someone for help. People understand how difficult and embarrassing it can be to ask for help, but you cannot find out until you ask. They may be able to provide temporary assistance, share meals, or offer guidance on accessing local resources. Building a support network can provide both emotional support and practical assistance during challenging times. You may need help this month, but maybe someone else in that circle will need help next month and you can guide them to the same help you received.

Experiencing food insecurity can be an incredibly distressing situation, but remember that you are not alone. None of us are. Numerous resources and organizations are dedicated to helping individuals in need. Reach out to local food banks, government programs, community meal programs, and other support networks. There is never a justification to steal, burgle, or rob. Maintain hope and utilize the available resources during this challenging period.

Christian M. Hartley is a 40-year Alaskan resident with over 25 years of public safety experience and public service. He runs a freelance business, Big Lake Writer, from home in Big Lake that he shares with his wife of 19 years and their three teenage sons.