Multiple organizations in Salina worked together Monday to “SNAP Back Against Hunger”.

Motivated by the recent government shutdown, and the disruption of food aid to those who need it, the Salina Area United Way organized a food and resources fair at the Tony’s Pizza Events Center, which the venue let them use for no charge.

Salina Area United Way Executive Director Christina Small spearheaded the effort. It was a call to action, motivating a community response to help those in Salina who need it.

Food was handed out at the event. Small said between money from her organization and donated funds, they were able to purchase 15,000 pounds of food to be distributed. Several thousand more pounds of food was collected at community donation sites and it was also being distributed. Schwan’s donated frozen pizzas to be given away as well.

Additionally, the Salina Salvation Army was at the event serving a hot spaghetti meal to the first 300 people. Longhorn Steakhouse provide the bread and salad, and the Salina Emergency Aid Food Bank provided the dessert.

 

There were about 20 vendors at the event providing resources. Small says about 40 people volunteered to help at the event.

Small said  38% of households in Saline County are either living in poverty or earning less than what’s needed to cover basic living expenses. These families struggle to afford basic essentials.

Small said it’s unclear if another event of this size will be necessary in the future. If it is, she’s confident the the community again step up and help do it again.

Schwan’s donated frozen pizzas to be distributed.

The Salina Salvation Arm provided a hot spaghetti meal to the first 300 people. Longhorn Steakhouse provide the bread and salad, and the Salina Emergency Aid Food Bank provided the dessert.