Nebraska For Us leads summertime food drive as school year comes to a close, SNAP cuts lead to growing hunger

Local coalition holds food drive to support Bellevue Food Pantry

BELLEVUE, Nebraska (June 3, 2026)—With summer break now in full swing for metro students, Nebraska For Us is calling attention to the issue of hunger when those daily school meals are no longer available. Nebraska For Us hosted a food drive at the Bellevue Food Pantry Wednesday morning.

“New data from Nebraska’s Department of Health and Human Services shows SNAP participation down by 11% in the past year—a loss of assistance for nearly 20,000 Nebraskans,” Nebraska For Us State Director Angie Lauritsen said. “This drop is not due to fewer people needing help. Instead, it is because of SNAP cuts that have made it more difficult for eligible families to receive benefits.”

Congressmen Don Bacon and Mike Flood voted for massive cuts to SNAP last year to fund tax breaks for the ultra-wealthy. At the same time, the war in Iran is continuing to cause gas and grocery prices to soar, making the pain that much worse. These cuts and the rising prices combined with the usual summertime slump for food access for kids creates a perfect storm.

The Bellevue Food Pantry is currently building a new, much larger facility to help meet the growing need for food assistance in the metro area. In the meantime, Nebraska For Us sought to help address the demand by accepting donations of non-perishable food items.

“The need is only growing in Bellevue and surrounding areas,” Bellevue Food Pantry Manager Deanna Wagner said. “This drive put on by Nebraska For Us is just one way to help meet the increasing demand for food assistance. This support will go a long way in supporting metro families as we get into the busy summer months.”

The most in-demand items include peanut butter, jelly, small microwavable meals, granola bars, cereal and juices. Every donation helps fill the gap when school meals are available.