NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — With a continuation of the federal government shutdown and SNAP benefits set to lapse Saturday, Nov. 1, some Tennesseans will struggle without a paycheck or without help finding food. In recent weeks, several community members across Middle Tennessee have worked to fill the gap.

In Murfreesboro, Samantha Janca has taken the lead to help families have affordable access to baked goods. Meanwhile in South Nashville, Sasha Carr has worked to help families by delivering groceries right to their front door.

Janca started a "pay what you can" baked goods initiative because she didn’t want families to miss out on birthday celebrations due to the government shutdown. While Janca describes the initiative as "pay what you can," there is a minimum $15 payment. That payment, Janca explained, helps her cover the cost of everything from ingredients to cake boxes. She provides everything from cupcakes to cookie cakes, brownies and 6-inch round or heart cakes.

Janca started the idea after seeing a post online about a family asking for cheaper cake options for their child’s first birthday. She evaluated the bare minimum cost of boxes and ingredients and decided to make desserts and garner community involvement. 

“They're already struggling with groceries as is, then they don’t get the simple celebratory things. It’s just not fair,” Janca said.

Carr has been delivering bags of non-perishable food items to doorsteps in Metro's 16th district free of charge. Each bag costs $17.80, and neighbors can sponsor a bag for a family in need.

Both women have seen an outpouring of support from their communities. Janca said right now, she has about 25 orders. She has an option for community members to anonymously sponsor lower-cost treats for others, and she said about 15 of her orders have been sponsored.

Janca said it’s been eye-opening to see the community get involved and help one another. She hopes families keep holding on to the hope that things get better and they’re not afraid to ask for help. 

“When I need help, I reach out for it, and a lot of people are afraid to reach out for help, but I don’t think there’s a reason to not reach out,” Janca said.

Anyone who wishes to sponsor a dessert or bag can reach out on social media.

News Source : https://www.wkrn.com/news/shutdown-snap-treats-nonperishable/