Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones announces over $1.6 million in HEB gift cards will aid 11,000 Bexar County households facing food insecurity.
SAN ANTONIO — Over $1 million will go to helping families in Bexar County in light of federal cuts pausing SNAP benefits this fall.
Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones announced Friday morning how they were able to raise these funds, explaining that this money will go out to those in need, no matter what.
“Our community needs us now,” Mayor Jones said.
The funds are needed to serve what Mayor Jones said are roughly 130,000 Bexar County households in need of these funds. With over $1.6 million raised by a host of donors like H-E-B and USAA, the mayor says only 11,000 will receive relief this go around from the city of San Antonio.
“We will distribute over $1.6 million in H-E-B gift cards to help seniors and vulnerable residents facing food insecurity and financial hardship.”
With $150 going to each household, accessing those funds will be easy. Those who are already signed up with city programs will be notified that they are receiving assistance.
“Again, more information on distribution will be put out next week, but I am here to let folks know you are not alone,” Mayor Jones said.
She says it takes $50 million a month to fund those who live with food insecurity. But, no matter what happens, she said, the need is great and the city will continue to fight.
“I think it’s tough on the heart. We don’t need that; this is needless suffering and falling on the backs of the most vulnerable in our community.