Columbus has rolled out a comprehensive SNAP Response Plan to support residents affected by delays in federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. The initiative provides food, essential resources, and community support to families, seniors, and individuals while federal benefits are paused.
The plan includes four pop-up food and resource events, with the first already held at Glenwood Community Center.
Upcoming pop-ups are scheduled at the following locations:
- November 7, 2–6 p.m. – Scioto Southland Community Center, 3901 Parsons Ave.
- November 10, 2–6 p.m. – Linden Community Center, 1350 Briarwood Ave.
- November 12, 2–6 p.m. – Far East Community Center, 1826 Lattimer Dr.
Residents who are SNAP recipients or eligible can receive groceries, frozen meals, produce, pantry items, and household essentials at these pop-ups. The City of Columbus is coordinating with nonprofits, faith organizations, and local businesses to ensure a broad range of resources is available.
Local businesses are stepping in to support the effort.
Gionino’s Pizzeria is offering a free six-inch pan pizza for every child until the SNAP pause ends, while Chicken Salad Chick at Polaris is also providing food for children. Columbus StandUp is hosting a free spaghetti dinner for families Friday, November 7, at G’s Shepard Café.
Beyond the pop-ups, the city has launched additional initiatives to assist residents, including citywide food drives, family adoption programs, and increased staffing at WIC clinics to meet higher demand. Programs such as rental assistance, utility bill support, and reduced COTA transit fares are also available for qualifying residents.
The City of Columbus emphasizes that these efforts are part of a coordinated response to ensure no resident goes without support during the SNAP benefit pause.
Updates on resources, volunteer opportunities, and community assistance will be shared regularly through the city’s SNAP Response Plan page.
