Flagler County is taking emergency action to support residents facing food insecurity as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits remain frozen due to the ongoing federal government shutdown.
County Administrator Heidi Petito approved an emergency allocation of $50,000 from the county’s pooled expenditures budget to bolster local food bank operations. This funding falls within the administrator’s authority to commit up to $100,000 without prior Board of County Commissioners approval.
At the upcoming Nov. 17 Board of County Commissioners meeting, Petito will seek board approval to reimburse this amount from the county’s general fund reserves.
Impact on Residents
According to the Flagler Department of Health, approximately 11,447 residents, or 7.4% of all Flagler County households, receive SNAP benefits. With those benefits temporarily frozen, the county’s action aims to ensure continued access to food for vulnerable families and individuals.
The SNAP delays mean families may have to skip meals or turn to food banks for the first time. Local food banks are stretched thin and need immediate support to meet increased demand.
Employee Contributions
In addition to the emergency funding, Flagler County employees and commissioners contributed $3,610 to the WNZF Food-A-Thon on Nov. 7, demonstrating a united effort in supporting local hunger relief efforts.
“One of the core priorities of our strategic plan is public health and safety,” said County Administrator Petito. “This emergency response reflects Flagler County’s compassion and commitment to helping our neighbors in need. I’m proud of our team’s generosity and proud to stand behind this funding decision.”
Flagler County will continue to monitor the situation and remain prepared to take further action to protect the well-being of its residents. The funding ensures that help is available immediately rather than weeks from now.
