NEW ALBANY, Ind. — As uncertainty grows around SNAP benefits, southern Indiana food pantries are seeing a surge in families seeking help, and the demand shows no signs of slowing down.

Hope Southern Indiana, a New Albany nonprofit, says it’s seen a 30% increase in people using its food services since April. Director of Emergency Services Heather Liebert said much of that rise comes from families worried about losing federal food assistance.

“Absolutely — since SNAP is coming to an end,” Liebert said. “We saw a lot of fear walk through the doors this morning. We even had a federal employee come in who won’t be paid until January.”

The organization relies on a mix of federal and community support — about 40% of its food comes from the USDA, with the rest donated by local partners and resi

See Full Page