United Way of Greater New Bedford Mobilizes Comprehensive Response to Food Insecurity Ahead of SNAP Benefit Delays
Community members, food suppliers, and restaurants urged to take action now
New Bedford, MA — As Massachusetts families prepare for the expected delay in SNAP benefits beginning November 1st, United Way of Greater New Bedford (UWGNB) is taking swift and coordinated action to ensure local households have access to food and essential resources. Addressing food insecurity from every angle - as a funder, fundraiser, service provider, and food distributor - United Way is leveraging its full organizational strength to meet this urgent community need.
Building on statewide efforts led by Governor Maura Healey and all 13 Massachusetts United Ways, UWGNB is raising funds locally and channeling resources directly to families across Greater New Bedford.
UWGNB relaunched the Help United Fund, originally launched during the pandemic, to provide emergency grants to local ood pantries. These funds will be distributed specifically for food purchases that help pantries restock their shelves.
“Families in our community can’t wait,” said Michelle N. Hantman, President & CEO of United Way of Greater New Bedford. “We are acting fast to make sure no one is left hungry, but we can’t do it alone. Every dollar, every meal, every partnership helps us meet this urgent need.”
In addition to fundraising efforts, United Way is urgently expanding its food recovery and distribution network to increase food supply in the area. By actively seeking new partnerships with local restaurants, grocers, and other food suppliers, we can ensure no family goes without food during this critical time. If you or someone you know can support this effort, please reach out today by calling 508-994-9625.
UWGNB is also increasing the number of corporate food drives to help meet growing demand. And through the Family Resource Center, UWGNB stands ready to support families with children from birth – age 18.
To ensure that no one faces this challenge alone, UWGNB has compiled a comprehensive regional resource list of food pantries and assistance programs with information on programs in Greater New Bedford, Fall River, Plymouth and Cape Cod. This list is now available at www.unitedwayofgnb.org.
If you or someone you know is looking for assistance, visit United Way’s website or call 2-1-1. Mass 211, a vital statewide helpline connecting individuals to critical services, is central to United Way’s efforts. Mass 211 is available 24/7 in 150+ languages.
If you want to help families facing hunger right now, take action today. Make a gift to the Help United Fund, host a food drive, or partner with UWGNB to donate food and supplies. Every contribution – no matter what size - helps put meals on the table for local families.
As the situation continues to evolve, United Way of Greater New Bedford remains committed to monitoring local needs and taking rapid, coordinated action to ensure that food and resources reach the families and individuals who need them most. United Way of Greater New Bedford has been a cornerstone of the community since 1953, advancing a healthy community, youth opportunity, financial security, and community resiliency. Through key initiatives like the Family Resource & Development Center, Hunger Commission, and New Bedford Community Connections Coalition, United Way provides vital support to help residents thrive. In addition to its direct services, United Way funds local organizations tackling these critical issues and connects them with volunteers through Volunteer SouthCoast.