After funding for SNAP benefits ran out on Nov. 1, the Trump administration declared that money from the Agriculture Department’s Contingency’s Fund will support SNAP payments through November. This fund does not have enough money to supply people with their full SNAP payments. It is estimated that this fund is enough for 65% of checks.

This deficit is driving demand at local food banks, demand they are struggling to meet. The University of South Carolina’s Student Government is working to help local food banks meet the need.

“When we see events going on in today’s world and Columbia, when we see students have a need, student government steps into action,” Vice President of Student Government Jordan Richardson said. 

Student Government is hosting Stuff the Bus to collect food to stock the shelves of USC’s Community Pantry and Harvest Hope Food Bank. This is a reoccurring initiative that is held in times of need. Stuff the Bus saw great success when they collected food for those impacted by Hurricane Helene.

Student body President Courtney Tkacs said she is hopeful for the same success, “Because this is such a nationwide issue there really is a lot of want to try and help those in need.”

All food that is collected will be donated to USC’s Community Pantry and once they are fully stocked, the rest will go to Harvest Hope Food Bank.