As a federal government shutdown casts a worrying shadow over the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday, the Community Resource Center (CRC) of Chattooga County is sounding the alarm and mobilizing an urgent community response. The CRC is preparing for its annual “Home for the Holidays” Thanksgiving food distribution on November 20, 2025, facing unprecedented demand from families who may be left without essential food assistance.

The ongoing federal shutdown directly threatens the availability of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. CRC organizers warn that without a resolution, Chattooga County residents relying on these benefits could find themselves with no food stamps available starting in November, a critical time leading up to the holiday season.

In a poignant statement released this week, the CRC highlighted the gravity of the situation:

“When the Table Feels Empty — Chattooga, Let’s Fill It Together,” the statement urged. “The government shutdown means no one in our county will receive food stamps next month — and that includes Thanksgiving. That means four Sunday dinners, countless birthdays, and many anniversaries will come and go without the food families were counting on.”

The CRC emphasized the emotional toll this loss could inflict: “Without those benefits, many will face not only empty plates but heavier hearts. But Chattooga County — we cannot let that happen.”

Drawing on historical precedent, the statement reminded the community, “The very first Thanksgiving was not a family dinner; it was a community event. And that same spirit is alive right here.”

While acknowledging the uncertainty, CRC organizers expressed unwavering commitment: “I don’t yet know what the coming weeks will bring or exactly what CRC will be able to do, but we are already working on a plan. What I do know is this: there is something extraordinary about Chattooga County. The heart of this place is bigger than any challenge that could try to divide us.”

The CRC plans to expand its “Home for the Holidays” distribution efforts to not only provide traditional Thanksgiving meals but also to serve as a critical lifeline for SNAP benefit recipients facing immediate food insecurity due to the shutdown.

Community Called to Action for “Home for the Holidays”

The “Home for the Holidays” Thanksgiving Food Distribution is scheduled for November 20, 2025, at The Community Resource Center of Chattooga County. Organizers anticipate a significantly larger number of families in need this year and are working diligently to ensure every household, especially those with children out of school for the holiday, receives assistance.

The CRC is appealing to the community for donations of non-perishable food items. While any donation is welcomed, a list of suggested items helpful for holiday meals is available upon request.

How to Help:

Contact for Donations: To inquire about specific needs or arrange a donation, please contact Maisha Ludy via email at maishaludy@gmail.com or by phone at 706-388-9849.
Drop-off Donations: Donations can be dropped off directly at The Community Resource Center of Chattooga County. When dropping off items, please specify that they are for the Thanksgiving event.
United by Faith Baptist Church Food Drive: Local residents can also contribute through a food drive hosted by United by Faith Baptist Church. The church is collecting non-perishable food items now through November 17. Donations can be dropped off at the church, located at 1794 Highway 114, Summerville, GA. The church leadership stated, “Every can, box, or bag of food helps bless someone right here in our community. Let’s come together and show the love of Christ through giving!”

“No matter the size of your donation, every little bit helps and makes a difference in our community,” the CRC concluded, urging Chattooga County to unite: “Together, in unity, we can make sure our neighbors keep their heads up and their hope alive this holiday season.”