Easy Ways To Help Families Without Food Stamps In Lawton, Oklahoma

There's no shortage of giving spirits in our community. If you're wanting to get involved and help families in need who may not have food available for next month due to the government shutdown, then here are some easy ways to do so.

Whether it's from donating, volunteering, or coming up with your own idea - every helping hand counts. It's even better if you can get a group of people together to give back, like your friends and family.

Keep in mind that these places may need help far beyond November. Not only if the government shutdown continues, but also because the holidays are just around the corner.

Donate cheap, non-perishable items and volunteer at local non-profits.

Plenty of organizations are stepping up and distributing free food to families who will not receive SNAP benefits next month. But, they can't hand out food if there is none left to give. So, they are all counting on the community to bring in donations such as:

• Non-perishable items
• Food with long shelf life
• Baby supplies (diapers, formula, etc.)
• Juice and water
• Meat (ground beef, turkey, chicken, etc.)

Most unexpired and unopened goods are accepted. If you would like to donate, the following places are needing your help now!

Hungry Hearts Feeding Ministry 

Local blessing boxes 

Lawton Food Bank

Salvation Army 

Several local churches also host free meal services. Check with your local church to see how you can help their efforts. This includes donating resources and donating your time through volunteering.

Come up with your own ideas - care bags, food stands, and more.

Several small businesses, organizations, and just ordinary families and individuals have taken it upon themselves to help in their own creative ways.

READ MORE: Get Free Help Without SNAP Benefits in Lawton on Nov. 1

For example, the Turd Burglars who serve southwest Oklahoma bought the resources to make ready-to-eat meals, prepared in Ziplock and Walmart bags, and distributed them to hungry families and individuals. They're still trying to make more since they have run out, but there are still others needing help.

Several families have also been stocking their local blessing boxes. If you do decide to use the blessing box, please remember that there are several families also needing assistance. So leave some for the next family in line.

If you have a local farm stand, consider placing items for free for families in need to have access to those farm-fresh resources that may not be available anywhere else nearby.

How else are you helping families in need? Share with us through the app.