PUEBLO – For folks who depend on food stamps, it’s perfect timing for a food distribution event at Care and Share in Pueblo.
Angelina Jahnke used to rely on food stamps to get by, but hasn’t had any since the new year rolled around.
“We just could go out and get it weren’t worried about our next meal,” Jahnke said.
She’s been forced to explore other options.
“We’re growing vegetables and what-not because it’s resourceful and that’s what we can afford right now,” she explained.
On Thursday, Jahnke stopped by care and share’s mobile food distribution to pick up other essential items, like fresh produce.
“[It’s] extremely helpful due to the fact that some of us can’t afford food right now,” she said.
The non-profit had planned this distribution before the shutdown started, but now they’re experiencing a lot more demand because of it.
“Certainly have seen a spike in our phone calls,” said Shannon Brice, the Chief Alliance Officer at Care and Share Food Bank.
“Everyone’s just a little uneasy about what may be coming down the pipes.”
Regardless of what happens next, the organization vows to continue their mission to feed those who need it.
“Whatever a family may be facing,” Brice explained, “We’re here to help them have food in their pantries and on their plates.”
Although Jahnke has her own suggestion in case the shutdown drags on.
“Start planting your own food, I guess.”
Thursday’s food distribution helped feed 449 families in Pueblo.
Care and Share also has another food distribution scheduled for next Friday, January 18, in Colorado Springs.
For more information on food distribution events, you can visit this link.
