Curbside Enterprises help clients facing setback with loss of SNAP benefits

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — The Senate failed for the 14th time to end the government shutdown, and as it lingers on, hundreds of thousands of Oklahomans aren't getting their SNAP benefits.

That includes Oklahomans who are working and trying to make ends meet, like employees at Curbside Enterprises.

"We operate a series of businesses, Curbside Flowers, Curbside Apparel, Curbside Chronicle, and all of those businesses offer work and income opportunities to people in our need, trying to work to end their homelessness," said Ranya Forgotson, programs director, Curbside Enterprises.

A majority of their clients rely on SNAP benefits every month, and now, without them, they're left wondering where their next meal will come from.

"I would get the maximum, which is $294, I think, and going from $294 to $0 is heartbreaking knowing that you may not eat," said Jennifer Johnson, who works at Curbside Flowers.

Johnson works at Curbside Flowers and is trying to get back on her feet, but even with a job, she's left scrambling.

Stasha Smart also works at Curbside Flowers and says she takes care of her mom, who also relies on SNAP, and she's worried.

"I have to take extra money now to buy food instead of the things that we need, like toiletries," said Smart.

Forgotson says their clients face a money gap each month.

"The food relief that they get from their SNAP helps them to make ends meet, and they don't have to choose between whether or not they can pay their rent or utility bill or whether they're going to buy medicine because they have a portion of their food covered," said Forgotson.

Forgotson says Curbside is having to get creative to make sure their own don't go hungry. They've started a fundraiser selling t-shirts and tote bags to raise money to feed their clients.

"We partnered with four local artists to create some amazing designs that have to do with food advocacy," said Forgotson.

Every dollar raised goes to food bags that are filled with a week's worth of meals that clients can easily transport to wherever they are staying.

"Already from our campaign, we've been able to purchase and provide over 3,200 meals to clients," said Forgotson.

The clients we spoke with say the bags have been a blessing and they wouldn't make it without them.

Pre-orders for the shirts and bags close Friday, November 7. Orders will be printed and fulfilled by November 17.

To purchase one, click here.