The Town of Concord Human Services staff is closely monitoring the federal pause in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which has halted the distribution of November benefits beginning November 1. While Human Services does not administer SNAP, we are coordinating with local and state partners to support Concord residents who may be affected. Our primary focus is to ensure that all affected residents, particularly our most vulnerable populations, know where to access immediate food and financial assistance.
Who is Impacted?
SNAP, a federal program providing monthly food assistance to low-income individuals and families, supports over 42 million Americans. In Massachusetts, the Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) has confirmed that November benefits will not be added to EBT cards unless the federal funding issue is resolved.
In Concord, over 248 residents—including older adults and individuals with disabilities—rely on SNAP as part of their monthly food budget. These residents will likely face ongoing food insecurity if the benefit interruption continues.
For residents who do receive SNAP benefits, if they have money on their EBT cards after November 1st, that money is still valid and can be used. DTA has said that SNAP recipients will receive full payment and retroactive benefits when the funds become available. DTA is also accepting and processing new SNAP applications during this time and reports that they will be able to provide retroactive benefits for new clients. At this time, DTA is anticipating that they will be ready to process benefits immediately when they are reinstated and should be able to get benefits reinstated within a few days.
Community Resources Standing Ready
We are fortunate to have a strong network of local partners prepared to meet the immediate and ongoing needs created by this situation. Concord residents impacted by the SNAP suspension are encouraged to please reach out for assistance. No one should go hungry, and we are committed to supporting our neighbors during this challenging period. The following are resources for Concord residents:
Open Table Food Pantry
Open Table’s Food Programs offer non-perishable groceries, fresh fruits and vegetables, dairy products, and other staples. They also offer healthy pre-cooked meals that are made fresh and frozen in individual portions. Meals are included in all grocery offerings. Open Table can accommodate new clients at this time. Individuals can self-refer to Open Table. The COA can assist anyone aged 60 and older with referrals to Open Table.
www.opentable.org
info@opentable.org
978-369-2275
Concord Council On Aging for residents aged 60+
The COA Outreach and Social Work team can assist with emergency funds for food (as supplies last), food delivery options, emergency funds for other necessities or unexpected needs through local charities, and applications for other public benefits (as they remain available) to help offset the increase in funds needed for food. This assistance is available now and is an ongoing offering from the COA regardless of the status of SNAP.
Reach out to Nicole Saia, COA Assistant Director, to discuss your specific needs.
nsaia@concordma.gov 978-318-3020
Concord residents aged 59 and under
Bonny Wilbur is the Community Services Coordinator for residents under-age 60. 978.318.3034 bwilbur@concordma.gov
Concord Charities
Concord has local charities that assist individuals with various essential expenses. While they may not provide food, they may be able to help with other expenses that are more difficult to afford with the loss of SNAP benefits. The COA provides guidance and assistance seeking charitable funds. Local charities include Hugh Cargill Trust and St. Vincent de Paul.
Veterans Assistance
Dick Krug, Concord Veterans’ Agent – 978-318-3038
Project Bread’s FoodSource Hotline
Confidential assistance identifying local food pantries and meal programs.
800-645-8333
The Greater Boston Food Bank
https://www.gbfb.org/need-food/
Massachusetts DTA can be contacted at 1-877-382-2363 for case-specific information and updates.