New Life Community Alliance (NLCA) has initiated an emergency relief fund in response to the impending suspension of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits due to the ongoing government shutdown. The SNAP Gap Emergency Relief Fund aims to provide immediate support to families facing food insecurity as the suspension is scheduled to begin on November 1, 2023.
“In times of crisis, we don’t wait. We act,” stated Michael Bryant, CEO of NLCA. He emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that many residents are already preparing for the consequences of empty shelves and empty stomachs. “Whether or not a deal is reached in Washington, the threat has already deepened food insecurity for thousands. We’re here to stand in the gap.”
Food Distribution and Community Support
NLCA, which is recognized as South DeKalb’s largest food pantry, will conduct food distribution from Tuesday to Friday, 10:00 to 12:00, and Saturday from 9:30 to 11:30 at their location on 3592 Flat Shoals Road, Decatur. The organization has been a reliable partner in food relief for over 23 years, and in 2024 alone, NLCA distributed more than 890,000 pounds of food, serving over 66,000 meals and assisting more than 64,000 individuals, including seniors, children, and working adults.
NLCA encourages community members to support the Fill the SNAP Gap initiative by making financial contributions or donating non-perishable food items. Financial donations will directly fund food purchases and enhance distribution efforts, while food donations can be made at NLCA’s Administration Building in Decatur.
New Kitchen Expansion and Future Plans
On November 3, 2023, NLCA will also inaugurate its newly expanded commercial kitchen, which will significantly increase its meal capacity from 300-400 meals per week to over 800. Bryant reflected on the timing of the kitchen’s opening, stating, “It’s bittersweet to open our new kitchen during a moment like this. We built it for long-term community need – and now, that need is knocking louder than ever.”
The situation has become increasingly critical as many families in the region face heightened food insecurity due to the suspension of SNAP benefits. Community members are urged to come together in support of this initiative, ensuring families have access to essential food resources during these challenging times.
