Providing Rapid Relief for Families Facing SNAP Benefit Cuts
The Merrimack Valley YMCA is grateful to the United Way for its support through the SNAP Rapid Relief Grant, which allowed us to respond quickly to an urgent community need.
Through this $25,000 grant, the Merrimack Valley YMCA provided $50 grocery store gift cards to 500 families across Lawrence, Methuen, Andover, and North Andover who were impacted by recent changes to the SNAP program. This rapid response helped ensure families had timely access to nutritious food during a period of uncertainty.
The SNAP Rapid Relief program enabled us to support individuals and families who rely on our food pantries, as well as families participating in our child care programs who receive subsidies and were experiencing increased financial strain. By distributing this assistance quickly, we were able to reduce barriers and help families meet a basic, essential need—putting food on the table.
“These gift cards provided much-needed relief to already stretched household budgets,” shared Catherine Redard, Executive Director of Child Care & Methuen YMCA. “The uncertainty around SNAP benefits was very stressful for families, and this support helped provide peace of mind and the ability to purchase food for their loved ones.”
We are thankful to the United Way for their partnership and continued commitment to supporting community members during challenging times. Together, we are working to strengthen our community and ensure families have the resources they need to thrive.
