St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch announced new measures today to support residents affected by the anticipated suspension of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits and the ongoing federal government shutdown.
The city will donate $20,000 to the St. Petersburg Free Clinic to help residents struggling to access food in the weeks ahead. According to Welch, the donation will allow the clinic to feed an additional 3,200 people throughout November.
“In times like these, compassion and community are of the utmost importance,” Welch said in a statement online. “With the anticipated suspension of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits taking effect Nov. 1 and the ongoing federal government shutdown, many in our community are facing real uncertainty about how they’ll make ends meet.”
The Free Clinic has long served as one of the city’s main safety nets, providing food, housing and health care for residents who fall through the gaps of other programs. Its food bank supports local pantries and community centers, and demand often increases when federal assistance is interrupted.
Welch said the city’s response aims to help families who find themselves suddenly without the support they depend on. The Free Clinic will use the funds to expand meal distribution through November.
The city also announced utility payment plans and extensions for residents and federal employees affected by the shutdown. The adjustments, Welch said, are designed to offer temporary relief for those working without pay or facing income interruptions.
“To help ease the burden, the city is offering utility payment plans and extensions for affected residents,” Welch said. “Anyone experiencing financial challenges can contact Utility Accounts Customer Service to set up a short-term payment extension or a longer-term plan.”
The announcement comes amid continued uncertainty in Washington over federal spending and state-level program cuts. SNAP, the nation’s largest anti-hunger program, faces a temporary halt in benefits as Congress continues to debate funding.
“These are challenging times, but St. Pete has always shown up for one another,” Welch said. “Let’s continue to lead with compassion and care for our neighbors who need it most.”