Local organizations providing help during cuts in SNAP benefits

Published on November 05, 2025

The ongoing government shutdown is having a serious impact on several federal agencies and programs.

One of the programs being impacted is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). More than 42 million Americans rely on SNAP to buy food, and the program ran out of funding over the weekend. SNAP contingency funds are expected to be used to issue partial November benefits.

People, communities and organizations in the Kansas City area are stepping up to provide help for families in need.

Jackson County Public Health is partnering with Harvesters each month to provide families with free fresh, healthy produce and nonperishable items at the Lee’s Summit clinic. Upcoming Events

KSHB 41 has put together a list of those lending a hand:

• Harvesters has a web page dedicated to area food pantries, drive-thru food pickup and kitchens.
• The Community Action Agency of Greater Kansas City offers a similar list of food and toiletry pantries on its website. 
• PeachTree Cafeteria, 6800 Eastwood Trafficway and 2128 E. 12th Street, Kansas City, Missouri, started offering a free hot meal on Tuesday. The restaurant is also accepting donations. Learn more by sending an email or calling/texting 816-969-0768.
• The Ate1Six Food Truck says starting Nov. 1, children will eat free until SNAP benefits are restored. You can learn more here.
• The NU Epsilon chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi at the University of Missouri - Kansas City is holding an emergency food drive through Nov. 21. Learn more online or visit the UMKC campus.
• Nour’s KC Restaurant is conducting a food drive through Nov. 26. Learn more online.
• KC Tenants is participating in a free grocery program. You can learn more online.
• The ProspectKC’s Nourish KC has resources and options online for those in need.
• Lilly’s Cantina in the Westside neighborhood is offering free meals to kids in November. Learn more online.
• DoorDash and GoPuff announced they are donating meals to those in need.
• Taco John's, Independence location offering free meal, ask for the "Community Special." Learn more online.
• Kids eat free at Thelma's Kitchen, starting Monday, Nov. 3. Learn more here.
• HyVee is offering free kids' meals for children 12 and under, Nov 3-7, along with $3 hot meals from 4-7 p.m. for all customers.