A government shutdown temporarily suspended crucial benefits like SNAP (Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program) and HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program). While these benefits are now resuming, the disruption has created hardship and uncertainty for thousands in Chautauqua County and shown just how fragile food security can be. A recent emergency meeting of the Chautauqua County Legislature revealed sobering numbers: 22,000 Chautauqua County residents rely on SNAP benefits, and 4,367 of SNAP recipients in the county are over age 60. These figures tell a story of a community still in crisis, especially as we head into a season of blizzards, rising costs, and holiday pressures.

Emergencies like this bring to light the widespread needs in our own backyard. The reinstatement of federal benefits is a welcome relief, but it doesn’t erase the challenges faced by many families and seniors who are still struggling after weeks without support. More than ever before, we need to shine a light on the resources available to help our neighbors in need. Long before the government shutdown – and long after it – local agencies, food pantries, meal delivery services, and church organizations are there to ease the burden for local community members, providing everything from a warm meal to a friendly smile and wellness check.

Many of these resources, desperately needed by so many today, have played vital, if quiet, roles in the background of our day-to-day lives, with staff dedicated to their tasks of putting food on tables throughout the county.  

As important as it is to get the word out about local resources to those in need, it is equally important to raise awareness for those fortunate enough to be able to help. The Chautauqua County government website (https://chautauquacountyny.gov/alert/snap-benefits-update-november-2025) has compiled a list of local resources, including emergency food services, pantries, soup kitchens, and other charitable partners. It has been heartwarming to spot shopping carts piled high with shelf-stable foods destined for a local food pantry – a sure sign that many want to help in this time of need. 

How You Can Help this Holiday Season 

In addition to donating to food pantries, there are many ways to support the work of local nutritional support services in the coming weeks and beyond.  

— Shop with purpose: For unique, handmade gifts, stop by Empty Bowls — Nov. 22 at Wheelock School in Fredonia and Dec. 6 at St. Luke’s in Jamestown, 11 am-2 pm on both dates. The events will feature a wide selection of ceramic bowls lovingly crafted and donated by local potters, and all proceeds go to local food pantries in Chautauqua County. Check out their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/p/Chautauqua-County-Empty-Bowls-61552096925926/

— Sweets for a Cause: Purchase festive cookie trays in support of the Dunkirk-Fredonia Meals on Wheels holiday fundraiser. Along with a team of other volunteers, I’ll be baking dozens of holiday cookies - including many regional favorites such as snowballs and cuccidati – to raise money for our mission to deliver nutrition and connection to local seniors. Cookie trays will be available for purchase on Dec. 13, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Fredonia Farmer’s Market (at the Masonic Lodge, 321 E. Main St. in Fredonia) — you can also support local farmers while you are there.  

— Volunteer your time: Lend a hand at the Friendly Kitchen in Dunkirk, the Westfield Community Kitchen, or the local food pantry or soup kitchen nearest you.  

— Spread the word: Use your social media to follow and promote local fundraising events and the work of organizations like FeedMore WNY. Start an online campaign, organize a workplace donation drive, or ask loved ones for donations in lieu of gifts.  As a volunteer with Dunkirk-Fredonia Meals on Wheels since 2020, I’ve seen firsthand the isolation experienced by many local seniors, but also their relief when they realize someone cares.

These moments remind us that local nutrition services provide more than food – they offer connection and hope. This holiday season let’s do what we can to ensure that no neighbor goes hungry. 

Emily VanDette is a professor of English at SUNY Fredonia.