11/25/2025
Jewish Federation Announces Emergency Food Assistance Grant to Support Families Impacted by SNAP Disruption
In response to the ongoing disruption of federal SNAP benefits and the resulting surge in community food insecurity, the Jewish Federation of Cleveland today announced an emergency grant of $85,000 to support frontline food providers serving vulnerable households across Greater Cleveland. The grant was approved at the Federation Board of Trustees Meeting on Monday, November 24.
Even prior to the current federal shutdown and SNAP instability, many local families were already struggling under the weight of rising grocery costs and strained household budgets. According to the Federation’s 2022 Cleveland Jewish Population Study, 5% of Jewish households—over 1,800 families—depend on government food assistance, with even higher reliance among seniors and individuals with disabilities. In the broader community, more than 90,000 Cuyahoga County households (16.4%) rely on SNAP to help keep food on the table.
“These are all households with no margin to cover this kind of financial disruption,” said Kevin Margolis, Federation’s Community Planning Committee chair. “When SNAP benefits are delayed, reduced, or uncertain, families must immediately turn to our partner agencies.”
The shutdown has created a climate of fluctuating uncertainty around SNAP allocation. While federal funds may ultimately be restored, local agencies cannot wait for clarity before acting. Shelves need to be stocked, distribution routes organized, and emergency food purchased immediately to meet rising demand.
To help bridge this gap, the Federation is issuing an emergency grant totaling $85,000, allocated as follows:
- $50,000 – Greater Cleveland Food Bank
- $25,000 – Cleveland Chesed Center
- $10,000 – Kosher Food Pantry
“When we were asked to join the community-wide effort to support those most affected by the SNAP and benefits crisis, we moved quickly to make sure the frontline organizations received the help they need,” said Erika B. Rudin-Luria, Federation president. “They can now turn this support into groceries, kosher food, and the essential logistics required to ensure families aren’t turned away during this uncertain time.”
While federal benefits will be restored shortly, these emergency dollars will pay for expenses during the lapse and fill the existing funding gaps created by urgent purchases. The Federation remains committed to ensuring that the most vulnerable families have the resources they need through moments of crisis and beyond.
