In the face of a federal blockage on SNAP funds, the Multnomah Board of Commissioners decided to step in, approving a $100,000 emergency fund to alleviate food insecurity for its residents. Approved on Thursday, Nov. 6, the board's unanimous decision allocated $75,000 to the Oregon Food Bank, while the remaining $25,000 is earmarked for commissioners to distribute directly to local providers, as outlined in a statement from the County.
With SNAP benefits stalled since Nov. 1, the crisis touches approximately 143,000 people, including vulnerable populations such as youth and seniors. Chair Jessica Vega Pederson expressed urgency, saying, “With the Trump administration providing mixed messaging and the restoration of benefits remaining in limbo on an unknown timeline, we needed to act immediately for the nearly one in five people throughout the County who rely on SNAP to help buy groceries.” Commissioner Meghan Moyer echoed the sentiment, emphasizing that the move should be just the start of a larger response from the County.
As the federal delay wears on, the strain on resources is not lost on county officials. Commissioner Shannon Singleton critically spoke about the federal inaction, saying, “The lack of action by this federal regime to put contingency funds into SNAP is appalling. I’m grateful that we could step up and put local resources into food assistance today,” as mentioned in County reports. Commissioner Julia Brim-Edwards highlighted the growing need for food in the education system, particularly for after-hours nourishment, emphasizing the fund's role in supporting food pantries in SUN Schools.
Residents have been left floundering as the federal funding freeze affects not only food stability but also housing security and utilities management. The County, in response, has ramped up its emergency services and social service staffing, as per Chris Voss, the director of Multnomah County Emergency Management, who stated, “Getting food in people’s hands as this happens is critical for us.” Information and resources to aid those impacted can be found on the Department of County Human Services' resource page at multco.us/food and via the 211 information line, providing a lifeline for many amid the uncertainty.
