Impacts of Government Shutdown on Local Families Intensify, Say Shelter Leaders
Macon, Georgia – Day 37 of the ongoing government shutdown is proving to be increasingly detrimental for families in Middle Georgia, particularly those reliant on social assistance programs. Leaders from Brookdale Resource Center and DePaul USA Daybreak reported escalating struggles among families as they face food insecurity, difficulty paying rent, and challenges in securing childcare.
The ramifications of the government shutdown extend far beyond governmental operations; they are directly affecting countless households already living on the brink. “People are really having to think hard about what it is they need to do to survive and make sure their children are taken care of,” stated Alison Bender, Executive Director of the Brookdale Resource Center. The societal implications are stark, as the lack of support exacerbates existing vulnerabilities among low-income families.
In Georgia, over one million residents are enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which includes around 526,000 children. According to Bender, even minor disruptions in benefits can trigger a crisis, leading families to potentially lose their homes. “The loss of benefits can create a snowball effect, where families prioritize food over rent or utility bills, consequently risking their housing stability,” she added.
Economic strain is not limited to nutritional challenges; families increasingly report being unable to afford essential transportation or childcare services. “They may not be able to put gas in their car or afford daycare anymore, as they redirect funds to cover unexpected costs that formerly were mitigated by SNAP,” Bender explained.
Adding to the urgency of the situation, Sister Deborah Mallott, Director of DePaul USA Daybreak, underscored the dire predicament of individuals re-entering society after homelessness. These newly housed individuals often find themselves particularly exposed to financial pressures without the safety net provided by SNAP benefits.
Mallott conveyed a heartfelt message aimed at lawmakers: “If they’re not going to have their salaries cut, then they shouldn’t cut people’s salaries. At least they can go out while they’re on furlough and work in a soup kitchen or assist in the community. I call upon them to do something for the poor.” Her statement highlights the shared responsibility of societal leaders to support community welfare during times of crisis.
In light of the increasing hardships, the Brookdale Resource Center and DePaul USA Daybreak are calling on community members to step up and volunteer. The shelters stress the importance of neighborly assistance during this challenging period, underscoring the collective effort needed to alleviate the stresses faced by vulnerable families.
Brookdale Resource Center, located at 3600 Brookdale Avenue, can be contacted at (478) 292-5123, while DePaul USA Daybreak is available at (478) 216-9119 on 174 Walnut Street in Macon. As the shutdown continues, organizations like these play a crucial role in offering support and resources to those in desperate need.
