Local Pediatrician Says Recent SNAP Ban Good For Tennessee
A local pediatrician said a move by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to ban the purchase of certain sugary foods and drinks using SNAP benefits is a good idea. Local Pediatrician Nita Shumaker said what is commonly known as “Junk Food” is not only bad because of sugar, but also other chemicals that are often […]
DeKalb Senior Center Provides Meals Amid SNAP Shutdown
As the delay on SNAP benefits continues, the DeKalb Senior Center one of several centers across the region providing hyper-nutritious meals for seniors. Director Pamela Redmon said those 60 years or older can register with the center to receive three hot meals a week through the UCDD Congregate Nutrition program. Redmon said the center has […]
Local Food Pantries Gear Up For Rush With SNAP Hold
With SNAP benefits reduced by the ongoing government shutdown, local food pantries said hey anticipate the region to have a bigger need for food access. Van Buren County Food Outreach Founder Kevin Bivins said he expects to see a more significant need, especially in the more rural counties. “I would say so if people can’t […]
Tech Expert: More Impacts Coming From Federal Shutdown
A Tennessee Tech Political Science Professor said the government shutdown will likely begin to impact more Americans day-to-day lives as it enters its second month. Professor Michael Gunter said many temporary measures have been used to combat funding issues in the federal government since the shutdown began. That has kept everyday Americans living their lives, […]
Putnam Schools Expanding Free Meal Program
The number of Putnam County schools offering free meals to all students will increase this school year from seven to twelve. School Nutrition Program Supervisor Jennifer Mitchell said those schools will be participating through the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) which provides free meals to all students regardless of economic status. Mitchell said schools are eligible […]
UCDD Offering Free SNAP Application Assistance
UCDD is offering free SNAP application assistance to those who qualify. SNAP, or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, provides individuals with monthly benefits to buy food. SNAP Coordinator Miranda Malin said adults 60 and older and/or disabled can take advantage of the service. “There are a lot of folks, especially with our population that don’t have the […]
UCDD Offers SNAP Application Assistance To Seniors
The Upper Cumberland Development District is offering assistance to seniors applying for the SNAP program. Formerly known as food stamps, SNAP stands for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. It helps those in need receive nutritional assistance benefits. UCDD SNAP Benefits Coordinator Miranda Malin said that she helps folks who are over the age of 60 or […]
Free Meals Will Continue For Jackson County School Students
All Jackson County School students will get free breakfast and lunch for the next four years. Director of Schools Kristy Brown said the school system reapplied for the Community Eligibility Provision program. Brown said it is important for the system to go after every program that can help families in Jackson County. “Families have not […]
Human Services Seeking Cumberland Office Space
The Tennessee Department of Human Services is looking for office space in Cumberland County. David Roberson is the Communications Director for the Department of General Services. He said the space will be used for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Program. “We’re looking for a facility of about 3,500 […]
