Champaign restaurant providing free meals to SNAP card holders

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) — On November 1, millions of Americans lost their SNAP benefits. Local businesses like The Literary in Champaign are trying to figure out how they can help fill that void.

Jenny Shima, owner of book bar The Literary, created their "Oh SNAP" menu. Customers can bring in their SNAP card to get one free meal per day; each card works for two adults and all children.

"Things are so hard right now. It's a scary time. People are already struggling. And then to take Snap benefits away on top of that, creates just an unthinkable burden." she said.

In order to fund the free meals, The Literary asked for donations from community members, and the community showed up in full force. "We are at close to $12,000 in five days. I mean, honestly, it makes me a little teary. It is just so moving to know how to see how this community is pulling together for each other, how much we care about each other." she said.

They plan to continue the free Oh SNAP menu until SNAP benefits are reinstated.

Donations can me made online, over the phone, or in person.

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