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Saint John’s & MLK Center: Filling the SNAP Gap

Rhode Island Faces a Food Emergency

Thousands of Rhode Islanders may see reductions or delays in SNAP benefits—the main federal program that helps low-income households buy groceries. Every month, about 144,000 Rhode Islanders—roughly 1 in 7 people—rely on SNAP, which brings in $29 million in grocery assistance statewide (USA Facts). If that assistance is disrupted, Rhode Island families could lose $1 million per day in food support. When SNAP is cut, demand at the MLK Jr. Center surges. Even when fully funded, SNAP is stretched thin. The average benefit is $198.52 per person per month, or just $6.50 per day to cover every meal (Food Research and Action Center). Most families run out of benefits before the end of the month and turn to local food pantries—especially the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center here in Newport.

How We Can Help

Saint John’s is launching an emergency food drive: “Filling the SNAP Gap.” Together, we can strengthen the MLK Center so they can strengthen our community—one meal, one family, one act of love at a time. “For I was hungry and you gave me food.” — Matthew 25:35 Feeding people isn’t an extra project; it’s the Gospel in action. This is about being true to our baptismal covenant in “respecting the dignity of every human being.” It’s not about determining who is employed, unemployed, deserving, or undeserving. It’s about being Christians who are trying our best to mirror our Savior, Jesus Christ. “Love your neighbor as yourself.”

Most-Needed Items

Please bring donations to the church on Sunday or during the week. Every contribution makes a difference!

 Diapers and hygiene supplies

 Shelf-stable milk and baby formula

 Canned fruits and vegetables

 Pasta, rice, cereal, oatmeal

 Canned proteins (tuna, chicken, beans, peanut butter)

Financial Contributions

You can also make a financial contribution—through Saint John’s (noting “Food Drive” in the memo). Your financial gift will be used to purchase gift cards to local grocery stores to allow recipients to purchase their own food.

Why This Matters

In Luke 10:25–37, when asked “Who is my neighbor?”, Jesus tells of a Samaritan who helps a wounded stranger—someone from a different, even hostile, group. The point is simple: our neighbor is anyone in need, not just those we think deserve help.

Beginning Sunday, November 2nd , we will have two receptacles at Saint John’s. One will be placed in the Guild Hall, and the other will be inside the front doors of the Nave (Washington Street side). We will have the doors unlocked (not necessarily open) for extended hours where contribution may be dropped off. We will continue this work until the increasing crisis is under control.

Thank you for what you do for your community, your parish, and for God’s Kingdom. May God use us and the Holy Spirit strengthen us to bring peace and safety to as many as we are able through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.