All Faiths Food Bank Receives Grants Supporting SNAP Benefits Assistance

All Faiths Food Bank has been awarded $30,000 in Community Investment funding from United Way Suncoast – as well as additional funds from Feeding America – through United Way Suncoast’s Reducing Food Insecurity Program, in order to help provide SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) application assistance and food distribution to hungry people and families. With these grants, All Faiths has hired a new SNAP Outreach Specialist, Mia Pompey, who will provide support and assistance to clients applying for benefits. 

The SNAP program, which is offered through the United States Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service, provides nutrition benefits to supplement families’ food budgets so they can purchase healthy food and move towards self-sufficiency. The team at All Faiths provides application assistance to help determine eligibility, complete the application and submit necessary documentation, and advise clients about what to expect throughout the process.

Pompey’s entire professional career has been in the service of underserved and at-risk populations. She has previously worked in positions including family support specialist, behavioral coach, and domestic violence case manager. 

“As All Faiths Food Bank works to provide healthy food and fight hunger in our community, I am committed to supporting those efforts by helping those who need SNAP assistance,” said Pompey. “Whether it’s offering community expertise, door-to-door outreach or mobile distribution support, I look forward to providing knowledgeable, caring and trusted service to ensure those who may be struggling to put food on the table can get the food they and their families need.”

With the financial impact of the coronavirus continuing to affect area residents, All Faiths’ program experts will continue to analyze specific zip codes to identify newly displaced and unemployed individuals and develop innovative strategies to reach those in greatest need. With an approximately 120% increase in distribution – and a nearly 45% increase in new clients at its mobile pantries – All Faiths continues to adapt to the crisis by adding resources and staff to expand and enhance services. 

“We are proud to partner with All Faiths Food Bank in support of our community impact priority of financial stability,” said United Way Suncoast CEO Jessica Muroff. “Our community needs this support now more than ever. We look forward to the impact these dollars will make in serving individuals and families.” 

To learn more about All Faiths, go to allfaithsfoodbank.org or call 941-379-6333.