With most of us looking forward to a day of over-indulgence with friends and family at the dinner table tomorrow, there are many who will be visiting community kitchens and missions for a donated meal, or sadly, even going hungry.

On November 1, 2013, food stamp benefits were cut to more than 47 million Americans on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). This was a result of the ending of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 law that raised food stamp benefits to households.

A family of four now receives $36 less each month because of the reduction, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture that administers the program, which represents a cut of 5%. Vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly are especially affected.

Food banks are experiencing increased demand as a result, and GHJ is proud to have supported the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank this past year with food drives, volunteer activities and donations. Click here to find out how you too can help.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Note: In California, the food stamp program is known as CalFresh and benefits are issued via an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card.