Star Murphy: Funding support drops while demand for food increases

To The Daily Sun,

Nine years ago, I began volunteering at the Northfield-Tilton Food Pantry, which was then serving just 65 to 70 people. Today, as assistant director, I help provide food to over 500 individuals on a regular basis, and we never turn anyone away.

We serve seniors, families, couples and individuals experiencing homelessness. Our pantry operates as a drive-up service, where volunteers load food directly into clients’ vehicles. The food we offer changes weekly and includes fresh produce, meat, dairy, canned goods and bread. For unhoused individuals who can’t cook or store food, my team and I prepare special boxes with shelf-stable, ready-to-eat items.

When funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) was cut a few years ago, we saw a surge in demand. Many of our clients still receive SNAP, but they rely on us to meet their basic needs. I worry demand will grow even more if benefits are cut again.

Like many food pantries, we’re already struggling with shrinking government support. We used to receive a $4,500 grant to buy fresh produce and meat from New Hampshire farmers. This year, that funding dropped to just $1,000. At the same time, food prices continue to rise, and our budget is being stretched thin.

I do everything I can to make sure no one in our community is forgotten or goes hungry, but it’s getting harder every day as support systems shrink and the need grows.

Star Murphy

Tilton