HWFC Response to the Interruption in SNAP

November 7, 2025

Dear Member-Owners and Owners,

The HWFC Board of Directors is very pleased to announce the recent response Honest Weight Food Co-op is making amidst the Federal SNAP funding lapse. CLM Peter Waldmann approached the Board with ideas for an initiative crafted by Honest Weight management in response to the news that Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) funding was interrupted due to the government shutdown. The Board reviewed the initiative and together with Peter and his team a plan came together. SNAP is a critical resource for millions of Americans and cessation of funding for this program threatens the food security of families in our own community and across the nation.

Here in Albany County, over 30,000 people rely on SNAP benefits to put food on the table. Approximately 40% of all SNAP participants are children whose well-being is directly impacted by this funding lapse. With this vital safety net in jeopardy, local emergency food providers like The Food Pantries for the Capital Region anticipate a dramatic surge in demand that they are not equipped to handle alone.

To help address the growing public need, Honest Weight is implementing a three-point response:

Direct Donation: We are making an immediate $10,000 donation to The Food Pantries for the Capital Region to support their efforts in serving more families.

In-Store Food Drive: Coming soon at every register, customers can purchase pre-assembled bags of shelf-stable goods. These bags will be delivered directly to homebound individuals and other vulnerable community members who cannot easily access food pantries.

Sustained Fundraising: Beginning November 1, one-third of all proceeds from our "Be the Change" fundraising initiative will benefit The Food Pantries. For as long as SNAP remains unfunded, Honest Weight will also contribute an additional $1,000 per month to this fund.

We have also implemented internal programs to help Honest Weight staff affected by these devastating funding delays, including offering free daily meals, a donation drive, and gift cards for those in need of up to $200 in November to use in the store.

Member Services is exploring opportunities for HWFC membership to be involved in assisting our community during this time of increased and special need. Please watch for more news and updates to the Membership this month.

During difficult times, we feel grateful for HWFC staff, Member-Owners and leadership acting cooperatively to support each other and our community.

Thank you, as always, for your participation and for being an important part of the HWFC cooperative effort.

In Partnership and Affinity,
Honest Weight Food Co-op Board of Directors