Hamilton County Harvest Food Bank Executive Director Suzanna Hobson (center) accepts the generous check. (Photo provided)
Posted By: The Reporter November 10, 2025
Huge help in the fight against food insecurity when it matters most
Hamilton County Community Foundation (HCCF), in partnership with Crosser Family Foundation and the Shelly & Cherryl Friedman Family Fund, has announced a $100,000 grant to Hamilton County Harvest Food Bank (HCHFB) to provide immediate relief to residents affected by the recent interruption of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.
The stall in SNAP benefit disbursements has placed additional strain on local families and food pantries. The emergency grant will help the food bank purchase and distribute essential food items to meet increased demand and ensure that families in need have access to nutritious meals.
“This is exactly why community foundations exist: to respond swiftly when our neighbors face unexpected hardship,” HCCF President Danielle Stiles-Polk said. “This grant represents the power of community partnerships in action, and we are deeply grateful to the Crosser Family Foundation and the Friedman Family Fund for their shared commitment to supporting Hamilton County families. Together, we are ensuring that our neighbors have access to the resources they need during this challenging time.”
HCHFB serves as a vital partner in addressing food insecurity across the county, providing critical support to residents facing hunger and hardship.
“We are deeply grateful to the Hamilton County Community Foundation, the Crosser Family Foundation, and the Shelly & Cherryl Friedman Family Fund for this generous $100,000 grant,” HCHFB Executive Director Suzanna Hobson said. “This support comes at a pivotal time for many residents impacted by SNAP benefit interruptions and will help ensure continued access to nutritious food across our community. It’s a powerful reminder of the compassion and collaboration that make Hamilton County such a caring place to call home.”
While this grant responds to an immediate crisis, HCCF’s support for addressing food insecurity extends far beyond moments of emergency. The foundation works year-round with community partners to strengthen long-term solutions to hunger through initiatives like the Hamilton County Food Resource Coalition, a collaborative effort to improve coordination among food providers and expand equitable access to food resources countywide. Learn more about the coalition at tinyurl.com/HamCoFRC.
“Hunger doesn’t begin or end with the loss of a benefit,” Stiles-Polk said. “We’re committed to ensuring that every Hamilton County resident has reliable access to healthy food, not just today, but for the future.”
Anyone who wishes to help can make a direct donation at hchfoodbank.org.
