As the federal government shutdown continues, the Healthy New Albany Food Pantry remains steadfast in its commitment to serve anyone in need within the New Albany-Plain Local School District—including families experiencing a loss or delay in SNAP benefits and federal employees impacted by missed paychecks.

While Governor DeWine has announced temporary state funding to support foodbanks and provide emergency relief to Ohio Works First families, many neighbors may still experience gaps in assistance or delays in benefits. The Pantry is ready to help fill those gaps.

We want our neighbors in need to know that they are not alone. If a household’s income has dropped below 200% of the federal poverty level, even temporarily, that household qualifies for assistance from the Pantry. Eligibility is based on current income, not last year’s tax return. Federal workers currently furloughed or working without pay are eligible for support during this time.

The Healthy New Albany Food Pantry is part of Central Ohio’s network of more than 600 Mid-Ohio Foodbank partner agencies, which includes local pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters. Together, they are working to ensure that no one goes hungry.

More than 83,000 children and 16,000 seniors in our area rely on SNAP to help feed their families. These benefits average $168 per person each month, and even brief disruptions can create hardship. While the State of Ohio has announced up to $25 million in emergency food assistance to help bridge the gap, pantries like the Healthy New Albany Food Pantry are preparing for increased demand as families stretch already limited resources.

The Healthy New Albany Food Pantry provides a safe, private, welcoming space for all who need support, offering both scheduled appointments and emergency assistance for anyone in immediate need.

If you or someone you know is experiencing food insecurity during this time, please contact the following:

Healthy New Albany Food Pantry
614-413-7907| healthynewalbany.org/get-food | info@healthynewalbany.org

The Healthy New Albany Food Pantry is deeply grateful to the volunteers, donors, and community partners who enable the Pantry to ensure that every neighbor has access to the food and care they deserve.

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FAQs

Who can receive help from the Healthy New Albany Food Pantry?
The Pantry serves individuals and families living within the New Albany-Plain Local School District with household incomes below 200% of the federal poverty level. Eligibility is based on your current income, not your last tax return, so if you’re a federal worker currently furloughed you may qualify for assistance during this time.

When is the Pantry open?
The Pantry is open by appointment, Wednesday-Saturday, two weeks per month. To make your first appointment, fill out the “Get Started” form at healthynewalbany.org/get-food

I receive SNAP benefits. Will I get my November benefits?
SNAP benefits will be delayed due to the federal government shutdown. The State of Ohio has announced temporary emergency assistance for the lowest-income households through the Ohio Works First program. Any unused SNAP benefits from October will remain available on your EBT card. For updates, visit benefits.ohio.gov

I’m on WIC. Are my benefits still available?
Yes. As of now, local WIC clinics remain open, and participants should continue using benefits as normal unless notified otherwise.

How can I help?
Financial donations go the furthest in helping the Pantry purchase nutritious food for families in need. As a partner agency of the Mid-Ohio Food Collective, the Pantry is able to stretch every $1 donated into $4.50 of food and supplies for local families. Financial donations can be made at healthynewalbany.org.

Non-perishable food and personal care items can be dropped off at donation boxes at the following locations:

• The Philip Heit Center for Healthy New Albany 150 W. Main Street, New Albany, OH 43054

• New Albany Village Hall 99 W Main St, New Albany, Ohio 43054

• New Albany Police Department: 50 Village Hall Rd, New Albany, Ohio 43054

If you have friends or family on SNAP who are impacted, please consider providing direct help to them if you are able.

The Pantry needs volunteers to continue to support its mission. Please visit healthynewalbany.org/volunteer to learn more about opportunities to give of your time.

Most importantly, please offer patience and empathy to every person you meet. They may be struggling with the stress heightened by food insecurity and uncertainty, and your kindness matters.