Chicago-area groups helping neighbors in need as Illinois SNAP benefits lapse, funding order blocked by Supreme Court justice
Share this @internewscast.com

In a climate of uncertainty, many families are still grappling with the challenge of securing their next meal. This comes after a recent decision by U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson to temporarily halt an order that would have compelled the Trump administration to fully fund SNAP food aid payments for November.

In Illinois, numerous beneficiaries have only received partial SNAP payments, prompting concerns that these amounts simply aren’t sufficient. In response, various community groups have stepped up to offer assistance.

ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch

Across Chicago, families are on edge as they await hopeful news regarding their SNAP benefits. Some recipients reported to ABC7 that they received partial payments last week, but the sum amounted to a meager $12, leaving many in a precarious situation.

In light of these challenges, local organizations have mobilized to support those in need through several food drives throughout the Chicagoland area. One significant event took place on the South Side at St. Sabina Church, where Father Michael Pfleger collaborated with the Greater Chicago Food Depository. Together, they distributed 500 boxes of food last week and increased their efforts to 700 boxes this week. Volunteers worked tirelessly, providing these critical supplies to a long line of individuals still awaiting their full SNAP benefits.

Meanwhile, another food drive was organized at St. Francis De Sales High School in the East Side neighborhood. This initiative is part of a series of weekly events held each Saturday, where students and local volunteers enthusiastically contribute by loading pre-assembled food boxes into waiting vehicles.

RELATED: ABC7 Chicago kicks off annual Feed the Love campaign as SNAP benefits in limbo | How to donate

A food drive was also held at St. Francis De Sales High School in the city’s East Side neighborhood. They’ve been hosting weekly events there each Saturday, with students and local volunteers pitching in to load up pre-assembled food boxes into cars.

Those receiving this food Saturday said it’s incredibly helpful at a time where many are running out of options without their SNAP benefits.

“It’s gonna be rough this month, so I’m really glad for this and other opportunities around the corner in upcoming days,” one person said.

An effort was also underway in Chicago’s West Lawn neighborhood to help families who may have lost SNAP benefits.

Volunteers at Pollo Cris Cris packed up food for those in need. They say right now the need is great. Organizers are asking neighbors to help neighbors.

There was more of the same in the suburbs Saturday, as a special food drive was held in Aurora in honor of Veteran’s Day. Boxes of food were given away to veterans and their families at the Aurora Area Interfaith Food Pantry. The first 150 people to drive through received food.

SEE ALSO: Groceries, free pet food given out in Chicago to SNAP recipients as shutdown drags on

It all comes after Supreme Court Justice Jackson paused a ruling Saturday night requiring the Trump administration to fully fund SNAP. The federal government says they don’t have the funding right now because of the government shutdown.

Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul called the move reprehensible as he shared a statement on the matter Saturday.

Raoul said in part, “It is unconscionable that the Trump administration would go so far as to seek U.S. Supreme Court intervention – on a Friday night – to prevent Americans from eating when funds are available to provide the much needed benefits. I am forcefully urging the federal government to follow the law and distribute SNAP benefits.”

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like
American tourist found stabbed to death in Tobago

American Tourist Tragically Discovered Fatally Stabbed in Tobago

Local authorities have reported the death of an American man found with…
Utah death row inmate with dementia dies of natural causes 3 months after execution was halted

Utah Death Row Inmate with Dementia Passes Away of Natural Causes Months After Execution Delay

A Utah man, who had been on death row for nearly four…
What does the future hold for Jets QB Justin Fields after benching?

Future Uncertain: What’s Next for Jets’ Quarterback Justin Fields After Recent Bench?

The future of Justin Fields with the New York Jets remains shrouded…
Cheerleader who died aboard Carnival cruise ship cremated, death certificate reveals

Tragic Cruise Incident: Cheerleader’s Brave Battle Sparks Federal Investigation into Stepbrother

The tragic death of 18-year-old Anna Kepner aboard a Carnival Cruise ship…
Kim Kardashian reveals new brain scan following aneurysm diagnosis

Kim Kardashian Unveils Latest Brain Scan Results Post-Aneurysm Diagnosis

Kim Kardashian recently underwent a brain scan on her show “The Kardashians,”…
US dramatically escalates Somalia airstrikes as Trump admin targets ISIS, al Qaeda terrorists

US Intensifies Airstrikes in Somalia, Targeting ISIS and al Qaeda Forces

JOHANNESBURG: The frequency of U.S. airstrikes targeting jihadi extremists in Somalia has…
Treat our holiday workers with respect

Extend Respect to Holiday Employees: A Call for Decency in Seasonal Work Environments

The holiday season is often associated with family, celebration, and joy. However,…
NY Jets cornerback Kris Boyd says he's back in the hospital after NYC shooting

NY Jets Cornerback Kris Boyd Returns to Hospital Following NYC Shooting Incident

New York City is once again the focus as New York Jets…
A Thanksgiving to remember: IHOP waitress gets $2,000 tip after man raises money on social media

Heartwarming Thanksgiving Surprise: IHOP Waitress Receives $2,000 Tip Thanks to Viral Social Media Campaign

“I was completely stunned,” shared server Ashley Cruz. “This feels like a…
Maduro brandishes sword at rally as he rails against 'imperialist aggression' amid rising tensions with US

Maduro’s Fiery Rally: Sword-Wielding Protest Against U.S. ‘Imperialist Aggression

Earlier this week in Caracas, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro delivered a bold…
Cheerleader who died aboard Carnival cruise ship cremated, death certificate reveals

Fox News True Crime Newsletter: Unraveling Anna Kepner’s Enigma, Alex Murdaugh’s Legal Drama, and the Stalled Investigation of Martha Moxley

In a tragic turn of events, 18-year-old Anna Kepner was discovered deceased…
Waters: The Media Don't 'Resist' Trump

Maxine Waters Criticizes Media for Lack of Opposition to Trump

During a segment on CNN’s “The Story Is” aired on Wednesday, Rep.…