Multiple US Communities Host Halloween Food Drives Amid SNAP Benefit Cuts

Across multiple U.S. communities, Halloween has become an opportunity to address food insecurity through innovative food drives. In Broome County, New York, the 25th annual Food-A-Bago Food Drive is collecting non-perishable food and monetary donations to support local families through Broome County CHOW. Phoenix neighbors near 19th Avenue and Thomas Road have incorporated food collection into their Halloween festivities, distributing canned goods alongside candy to help neighbors facing hardship. Similarly, in Central Ohio, residents in German Village and New Albany organized "reverse trick-or-treat" initiatives, gathering food donations to support local food pantries amid concerns over SNAP benefit uncertainties due to a government shutdown. In Saint Charles, Missouri, the city is hosting a "Fill the Truck" food drive during Halloween trick-or-treat events, encouraging donations of nonperishable items to aid local food pantries affected by SNAP funding suspensions. These community efforts highlight a growing trend of turning Halloween into a time of giving, especially in light of increased demand for food assistance.