FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — Local Leaders Warn of Impending Hunger Crisis as SNAP Shutdown Impacts Thousands
Coconino County officials are sounding the alarm as the ongoing federal government shutdown halts Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, leaving thousands of local families without vital food assistance.
On October 30, Coconino County Treasurer Sarah Benatar joined Illinois State Treasurer Mike Frerichs and Flagstaff Family Food Center Food Bank and Kitchen CEO Ethan Amos to discuss the serious effects of the SNAP suspension during a press conference.
“In Coconino County, where 18 percent of residents live in poverty, SNAP-authorized stores redeem more than $500,000 in benefits annually, making the stakes significant for local economies and small businesses,” Benatar said.
Ethan Amos described the situation as unprecedented, explaining that local food banks are already operating at capacity and cannot fill the growing gap left by the federal program.
“These are working families — nurses, social workers, restaurant employees — people already living on the edge,” Amos said. “The loss of SNAP benefits will not only increase hunger but also drive up health costs and financial instability.”
The discussion was featured in The Packer, a national produce industry publication, under the headline “Unprecedented Hunger Crisis Looms as Illinois and Arizona Brace for SNAP Shutdown.”
Treasurer Benatar reaffirmed her commitment to supporting programs like SNAP, emphasizing their importance in ensuring families and children have consistent access to nutritious food.
County Launches Food Drive to Support Families in Need
In response to the suspension, Coconino County has launched a local food drive to help offset the immediate impact. Residents are encouraged to donate shelf-stable items such as:
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Canned or jarred sauces and meats
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Canned fruits and vegetables
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Soups
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Dried pasta, rice, and grains
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Boxed meals
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Peanut butter and cereal
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Grocery gift cards
Donations can be dropped off weekdays through Friday, Nov. 7, at the following county locations:
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Coconino County Health and Human Services, 2625 N. King Street, Flagstaff (8 a.m. – 5 p.m.)
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County Administration Building, 219 E. Cherry Street, Flagstaff (8 a.m. – 5 p.m.)
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Williams Senior Center, 850 W. Grant Ave., Williams (9 a.m. – 2 p.m.)
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Coconino County Health and Human Services, 467 Vista Ave., Page (8 a.m. – 5 p.m.)
Stuff the Bus Returns November 8–9
Coconino County is also partnering with Mountain Line, the City of Flagstaff, and the Flagstaff Family Food Center for the annual Stuff the Bus food drive. Community members are invited to donate turkeys and other holiday food items from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Nov. 8 and 9 at:
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Safeway, 1201 S. Plaza Way, Flagstaff
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Safeway, 1500 E. Cedar Ave., Flagstaff
Residents are also encouraged to donate directly to local food banks and charitable food organizations.
As the SNAP shutdown continues, local leaders urge residents to come together in solidarity — ensuring that no family in Coconino County faces hunger alone this holiday season.
