Macon businesses helping SNAP users amid shutdown, looming pause in benefits

According to the Georgia Budget and Policy Institute, more than 36,000 Bibb County residents received SNAP benefits last year, which is roughly 23% of the county's population.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – With Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits set to pause this Saturday, the risk of food insecurity for thousands of Middle Georgians increases by the day. That’s why a few local businesses are helping fill the gap.

“We’re doing free sausage biscuits,” said Scott Mitchell, Owner of Sweet Eleanor’s Divine Desserts. “Show us your SNAP card or just tell us. We really just want to help and be able to feed people.”

According to the Georgia Budget and Policy Institute, more than 36,000 Bibb County residents received SNAP benefits last year, which is roughly 23% of the county’s population. Mitchell says the free biscuit offer will be available Monday through Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. In times of economic uncertainty, he says it’s important that businesses, organizations and individuals look after one another.

“We are so entrenched in the community here,” Mitchell said.  “I love these people. They’re my friends, they’re my neighbors, and I’m going to do all I can to help them.”

Other restaurants, like Grow Fresh Local Food, are accepting food donations and coming together to distribute meals to those in need. Antonio Peelar, a cook and busser at Grow, says the donation box was put out Tuesday and has already been successful.

“They come in and drop it off, and we donate whatever we can as well, so we just contribute to the box daily,” Peelar said. “And as you can see, the box is already full.” 

Peelar says the donation box will also be out during the duration of the shutdown. He says lending a helping hand in the community is important to him on the job and on a personal level.

“I don’t only want to make a difference, but I also want to be the difference,” Peelar said.  “I’m just proud to be here at Growth and be a part of this team that helps others out, you know, in their time of need.” 

Mitchell says the Bohemian Dem, located on Cherry Street, will serve as a food collection point during the shutdown.