St. Johns County Boosts School Food Pantries with Funding Support

Efforts to combat food insecurity among students in St. Johns County have received a significant boost with new funding aimed at restocking school food pantries. Volunteers from the local nonprofit organization, HUGS Across the County, are on the front lines, providing essential food supplies to schools throughout the region.

Each month, HUGS organizes food deliveries to 21 schools, including Sebastian Middle School. The nonprofit seeks input from each school to determine the most pressing needs for their pantries. With nearly 10,000 residents in St. Johns County, including approximately 3,900 children, relying on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, the urgency of this initiative is clear.

County Commissioner Sarah Arnold championed the funding initiative, which will allow HUGS to acquire additional supplies as the community braces for potential changes to SNAP benefits. “If SNAP benefits are not restored in November, we will revisit funding discussions in December,” Arnold stated. The county’s commitment to addressing food insecurity is critical, especially as many families face uncertainty regarding their food assistance.

Volunteers like Dr. Linda Hilton, a U.S. Navy veteran, play a vital role in this mission. Hilton and her team dedicate their time to ensuring that children and families have access to nutritious food. Their recent efforts at Sebastian Middle School were met with gratitude from staff and students as they filled pantry shelves with essential items.

The collaborative approach of HUGS also includes maintaining a comprehensive list of food pantries available in the county. This resource helps families navigate available support systems during challenging times. As the community rallies around the cause, the importance of ensuring that “no kid should go hungry” resonates deeply among volunteers and families alike.

The initiative is a reminder of the growing need for community support in addressing food insecurity. With the looming uncertainty surrounding SNAP benefits, local organizations and volunteers are stepping up to fill the gap. The ongoing efforts of HUGS and the county’s support highlight the significance of community engagement in tackling food challenges faced by many families in St. Johns County.