Getting the Word Out About SNAP: Cheryl's Story

Cheryl is always looking out for others. “I’m disabled, so I’m home most of the time. But I like to volunteer. I work with a local group in my neighborhood that helps struggling families. When I’m not doing that, I like doing arts and crafts."

Cheryl recognized from an early age that she needed some extra food assistance. “When I was pregnant with my first child, I remember being on WIC. Through those resources, I got signed up with SNAP.”

Even when Cheryl was working full time, she still qualified for extra money for groceries.

“I’ve been on and off SNAP most of my adult life,” she says. “I’m pretty resourceful, but [SNAP] gives me a little bit of a cushion. I’m on disability, and I get back child support, but that’s nothing to write home about.”

Cheryl has a necessary surgery coming up and needs to put money toward a copay. She receives a little over $200 a month in food support, which helps her immensely. “If I didn’t get that money, it would cut into my Social Security. Right now, I’m sitting on a car repair. It’s not like I have extra money laying around.”

A recently diagnosed diabetic, SNAP, and specifically the Market Bucks program at local farmers’ markets help Cheryl eat healthier. “I can go to farmer’s markets in the summertime and use my EBT card and get fresh veggies, which is something that I love.”

“I’m more a vegetable person over fruit. I’m not really a fish person, but I’m trying!” she says with a laugh.

Whether it’s sharing her experiences, or providing resources in her local neighborhood Facebook group, Cheryl is trying to educate her neighbors on the importance of SNAP. “I think a lot of people don’t know or understand the importance of how much it helps families. A lot of working families still need [the support].” 

Cheryl is also a member of Second Harvest Heartland’s Neighbor Advisory Council, where a group of people meet once a month and talk over their personal experiences of living on SNAP and come up with ideas to better serve their neighbors.

“It takes a really good group of people to make things better,” she says. “We’re preparing for Hunger Day on the Hill and are looking for ways to get more food out to more neighborhoods.”

Cheryl makes sure to always keep things in perspective. “I went to a shelf last week to use the clothing store, and a gentleman came in off the street that was unhoused. All he wanted was a loaf of bread. It just makes me eager to help wherever I can.”

“I’m just hoping that I can make a difference and get the word out.”