Corporations and Restaurants Help with SNAP Cut-Offs in North Texas

Due to the ongoing federal government shutdown, SNAP benefits in Texas are facing a major interruption. The USDA has warned that if the shutdown persists, the program will run out of funds and November benefit payments may not be issued. In Texas alone, roughly 3.5 million residents — including 1.7 million children — could lose access to about $614 million in monthly SNAP benefits, leaving households that rely on an average of $379 per month per household struggling to put food on the table. This disruption threatens food security for working-class families, children, seniors, and other vulnerable residents, prompting nonprofits and community organizations to prepare for unprecedented demand.

If you, your company or restaurant have a stop-gap plan in place let us know. Here are some measures that will help with relief:

Residents impacted by SNAP interruptions have several avenues for immediate support. Local food banks and pantries, such as the North Texas Food Bank and Tarrant Area Food Bank, are key resources. Calling 2‑1‑1 Texas or visiting 211texas.org provides a centralized way to locate emergency food programs. Applicants should bring documentation like ID, proof of household size, income, and utility bills. Acting early is critical, as resources may be limited. Wrap-around services, including rent, utilities, and job-training support, may also be available from some agencies. Regularly checking official state resources, like YourTexasBenefits.com, is essential to stay updated.

Corporate Donations Helping Fill the Gap

Many large companies have stepped in to support Texans facing hunger. H‑E‑B donated $6 million statewide — $5 million to food banks and $1 million to Meals on Wheels Texas. Dollar General Corporation contributed over 3.5 million pounds of food to Texas food banks in 2024. Atmos Energy Corporation gave $100,000 to the North Texas Food Bank, while CITGO Petroleum donated $90,000 across Texas. Brookshire Grocery Company provided more than $80,000 in fresh produce. Additional contributions include Hillcrest Foundation / Bank of America ($250,000), Bioworld Foundation ($500,000), Link Logistics ($100,000), and Ryan ($75,000). These donations provide critical support to food banks and feeding programs bridging the gap created by SNAP disruptions.

Beginning November 1, Gopuff is committing up to $10 million in free groceries for SNAP recipients offering a $50 credit to customers who connect their SNAP EBT card to their account. The initiative is designed to help bridge critical gaps in food support ahead of the holiday season, making fresh food and household essentials more accessible to families who need it most.

Check into SNAP Back Food Drive North Texas and donate if you are able. Arkearth has partnered with Staff Meal Project and area restaurants, bars, and local businesses to launch the SNAP Back Food Drive in response to the SNAP program suspension. This cancelled funding will have an unprecedented impact on individuals and families.  Our goal is to unify communities to take action and help feed at risk populations during the funding shortage. 

Non-perishable packaged food items will be accepted at various drop off points in North Texas and delivered weekly to food pantries including the North Texas Food Bank, Minnie’s Food Pantry, and the Network of Community Ministries 

Please let these companies feel your appreciation.

Restaurants and Community Programs Serving Meals

Several restaurants and community programs in North Texas are offering meals to help those impacted. Taste Community Restaurant in Fort Worth and Arlington operates on a pay‑what‑you‑can model, allowing diners to access full meals regardless of ability to pay. Hunger Busters in Dallas provides meals for children who might otherwise miss a meal at home. The South Dallas Community Food Center offers weekly hot meals and nutritional food to low-income families. Brother Bill’s Helping Hand in West Dallas/Oak Cliff combines pantry-style groceries with hot meals and support services, while Harmony CDC Food Pantry in southern Dallas provides 25-pound food boxes sufficient for roughly five days. Together, these programs and restaurants provide immediate relief, bridging the gap for North Texans impacted by lost or delayed SNAP benefits.

If you are not affected and can help, please donate what you are able to these programs.

How People Can Seek Relief

If you’re in North Texas — or will be impacted by the SNAP benefits disruption — here are steps you can take:

• Contact local food banks and pantries: Many already serve SNAP families and are preparing for increased demand.
• Use 2‑1‑1 Texas (or visit 211texas.org): This is a centralized resource to find food assistance, emergency programs, and partner agencies near you.
• Document your need: Bring proof of residence, household size, income / unemployment, any SNAP eligibility notices — many agencies request this when helping.
• Act early: If you anticipate losing benefits or have already lost them, don’t wait. Relief agencies may have limited resources and you’ll want to tap in quickly.
• Ask about wrap‑around services: Some places offer not just food but help with rent/utility support, job‑training referrals, and additional benefits assistance.
• Stay updated: Because the situation is fluid (dependent on federal funding, state decisions), check official state websites (e.g., YourTexasBenefits.com) for the latest on SNAP. (Your Texas Benefits)

We will provide more information with Thanksgiving options for the public as we get closer to that day.