Kansas City, Missouri – Kansas City workers are teaming up to help their neighbors through two big community projects: a citywide garment collection and a food drive with Harvesters. The programs started because things were getting worse in the area after federal SNAP benefits stopped, which made people need more food and other basic needs.
City workers are being encouraged to give gently worn clothes, shoes, and non-perishable food to help families in the area who are having trouble making ends meet. The initiatives show that public employees are working together to serve citizens during a tough time when prices are going up and federal support is going down.
Mayor Quinton Lucas highlighted how important it is to take action in the community to meet its immediate needs.
“Kansas City will not stand by while inaction in Washington harms our kids and our families,” Lucas said. “Clothing and food drives represent our commitment to ensuring no resident goes without essential resources during the SNAP benefit crisis. I’m grateful to our city employees for their generosity and to Harvesters for their partnership. We will continue to lead with compassion and take care of our community, regardless of what happens at the federal level.”
The food drive will last from November 5 to December 5. Harvesters will give out all the food they collect to local food banks to help people who have lost their SNAP benefits. As more families look for emergency help, Harvesters, a major food network in the area, has noticed an increase in demand.
“Kansas City employees have always shown up when our community needs it most. These drives reflect the heart of our organization — people who care deeply about serving others , said City Manager Mario Vasquez. “We are happy to lend a hand and further strengthen the connection between our workforce and the residents we serve every day.”
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The City of Kansas City has also set up an online SNAP Resource Hub to make sure that residents can get accurate information and help. The portal includes information about local food programs, benefits, and support services. For further information, residents can go to kcmo.gov/snap.
Kansas City is showing how local government and community partnerships can cover important gaps by working together. They are giving people instant help and reminding them of their shared responsibilities during times of uncertainty.
