Amidst a swell of need that could crest with the onset of President Trump's "One Big Beautiful Bill Act," St. Mary's Food Bank is bracing for far-reaching challenges resulting from cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), as per a report obtained by FOX 10 Phoenix. Jerry Brown, representing St. Mary's, shared that the food bank is coping with increased pressure, servicing more families than at any previous point in its 58-year legacy. With the cuts slated to weaken social safety nets, Brown foresees "rural areas" taking heavy hits, especially with Medicaid reductions looming.
St. Mary's Food Bank is facing a significant shortfall due to recent federal funding cuts, which have resulted in the loss of nearly one million pounds of food—equivalent to almost one million meals, according to Jerry Brown of St. Mary's. This reduction comes at a time when donations typically decline, as summer temperatures lead many potential donors to leave the area. The funding cuts are expected to affect both the quantity and variety of food provided in distribution boxes throughout the summer months, AZ Family reports.
St. Mary’s Food Bank operates six days a week to address hunger in the community. Jerry Brown told FOX 10 Phoenix that donations play a crucial role in their efforts, noting that a $1 contribution can provide five meals. The food bank also relies heavily on volunteers to help assemble food boxes to meet the increased demand.
St. Mary’s Food Bank may reduce the number of items in its food boxes toward the end of summer, dropping from the current 12 to 13 items to 10 to 11, according to Jerry Brown in an interview with AZ Family. Brown also urged community members to consider making donations before the busy vacation season, noting that a $20 contribution can provide 100 meals.
