The city has already identified those in need through existing programs to ensure resources reach those most in need.
SAN ANTONIO — The City of San Antonio has a plan to help those impacted by the possible pause in SNAP benefits caused by the government shutdown.
The City worked with Metro Health to coordinate a plan that prioritizes low-income seniors and households with young kids who are in need due to financial hardship.
The city has already identified those in need through existing programs to ensure resources reach those most in need.
“Every San Antonian deserves access to healthy food,” said Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones. “When federal support falls short, our community steps up. I’m grateful to everyone who answered my call for financial support allowing us to move quickly and get help to those who need it most. Thanks to our local partners and City staff, we’re making sure seniors and families don’t go without essentials during this pause in SNAP benefits. We know this $150 gift card will serve as a lifeline to so many, but the real solution is the federal government up and running as soon as possible.”
A phased distribution starts on Wednesday, November 5, with the initial focus on Senior Center Project HOPE, NXT Level participants, Early Head Start and Head Start families, who have already been screened and verified.
Metro Health will give out gift cards through scheduled WIC clinic appointments:
- 300 appointments projected for the week of November 3
- 700 the week of November 10
- 1,000 the week of November 17
More distributions will continue as funding and card inventory allow, ensuring all resources are fully utilized, even if federal SNAP benefits resume during this period.
“I want to thank the dedicated teams at Human Services, Metro Health, Finance and Communications & Engagement, and our partners at the San Antonio Area Foundation for their commitment to delivering timely support to San Antonio’s most vulnerable residents,” said City Manager Erik Walsh. “Their coordination and compassion ensure help reaches those who need it most, when it matters most.”
The City expects to reach roughly 10,000 eligible residents during the initial phase, representing about 26% of the total population served through DHS and Metro Health programs.
If you’d like to donate to the San Antonio Area Foundation’s Feeding San Antonio Fund, visit SAAFDN.org/feeding-san-antonio.