City of Bloomington Provides Emergency Support Hoosier Hills Food Bank as SNAP Benefits Pause During Federal Shutdown

The City of Bloomington is providing $46,000 in emergency funding to Hoosier Hills Food Bank (HHFB) to help sustain food access for residents across south-central Indiana during the ongoing federal government shutdown.

The shutdown has paused Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for more than 16,000 individuals in the food bank’s six-county service area, including Monroe County.

The City’s support will help HHFB implement its November Emergency Response Plan, which includes purchasing and distributing approximately 330,000 pounds of food—the equivalent of 275,000 meals—through its mobile pantries and 84 partner agencies. The plan ensures continued access to nutritious food for households facing temporary loss of federal benefits.

“Food access is essential for community health and stability,” said CFRD Director Shatoyia Moss. “Our city is acting quickly to help ensure that families, seniors, and individuals continue to have what they need during this period of uncertainty. We’re deeply grateful for the leadership and commitment of Hoosier Hills Food Bank and the many partners who make this work possible.”

Mayor Kerry Thomson emphasized the City’s role in ensuring stability and compassion.

“No one should go hungry because of gridlock in Washington,” says Mayor Thomson. “When national systems are disrupted, local governments and our community partners hold the line. Bloomington will always step forward to respond, take action, and care for our neighbors and the communities we serve.”

The City’s contribution complements support already pledged by the Community Foundation of Bloomington and Monroe County, Smithville Charitable Foundation, Feeding America, and other local partners. Combined, these funds will help HHFB purchase ten semi-truck loads of staple foods including peanut butter, fresh produce, potatoes, frozen turkeys, and non-perishable food boxes.

Residents in need of food assistance can find local pantries, mobile distributions, and meal sites by visiting hhfoodbank.org/find-food  or by calling Hoosier Hills Food Bank directly at 812-334-8374.