When Safety Nets Falter: How Baltimore Hunger Project Is Responding to the SNAP Crisis
Thousands of Maryland families are facing an immediate food crisis.
Because of the federal government shutdown, SNAP benefits — the food assistance many families rely on each month — are delayed.
In Baltimore alone, more than 134,000 residents depend on SNAP to feed their families. Without this lifeline, parents are struggling to fill grocery carts, and children are coming to school hungry.
At Baltimore Hunger Project, we’re stepping up in two critical ways to support our community.
Amplifying Our School Pantries
We’re restocking and expanding emergency food pantries at our partner schools so that social workers and counselors can provide direct, dignified support to families in crisis.
These pantries are lifelines, offering stability and relief where it’s needed most. We’re collecting high-need items to keep shelves full, including:
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Tomato products, pasta sauce, soups, stews, chili
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Canned meats and fruits
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Rice, pasta, oatmeal, cereal, dried beans, lentils
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Cooking oil
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Diapers, pull-ups, toilet paper, paper towels
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Shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, dental products
Donations can be dropped off at our warehouse (9596 Deereco Road, Timonium) Monday through Thursday, 9 AM–4:30 PM or by appointment.
Collecting Thanksgiving Food Bags
We believe every family deserves the joy of gathering around a full table.
Our Thanksgiving Food Drive ensures families have a complete holiday meal to share — filled grocery bags, collected by our community, will go directly to the children and families we serve.
Every bag represents more than food — it is nourishment, comfort, and the reassurance that our community cares.
Standing Together for Baltimore Families
Hunger doesn’t pause for the holidays or wait for the government to reopen. Every act of generosity — whether it’s filling a bag, donating online, or sharing our message — helps us meet the growing need.
Together, we can make sure no child goes hungry and every family in Baltimore has a reason to give thanks.
