Topic: Food Justice, SNAP, and Daily Bread
The changes to food assistance programs aren’t just a future concern—they are happening right now, and the impact is already being felt across the Capital Region. With state and local leaders like County Executive Daniel P. McCoy recently highlighting the millions of dollars in unfunded SNAP costs shifting to Albany County, the safety nets our neighbors rely on are under immense strain. Food insecurity in our neighborhoods is becoming an immediate crisis.
Join us on Tuesday, November 3, for a critical Faith in Action potluck. This month, we are focusing on this urgent reality and how we, as a community, must respond.
We are thrilled to welcome two special guest speakers who are navigating the front lines of this crisis: Natasha Pernicka of the Food Pantries of the Greater Capital Region, and Keith Leahey, Executive Director of the FOCUS Churches of Albany.
As hosts to the FOCUS Breakfast Club and close partners with the FOCUS food pantry across the street, our congregation is deeply invested in how these state and federal shifts are hurting our most vulnerable neighbors. Natasha and Keith will help us examine the harsh realities of these cuts and, most importantly, offer a clear call to action. We must discuss how to move beyond emergency charity toward lasting food sovereignty and justice.
Community Potluck and Discussion
Gather around the table for shared food, deep fellowship, and faithful discernment. In October, November, and December, we come together for a community meal followed by an engaging presentation and dialogue with guest speakers working on the front lines of community care and advocacy. Together, we will examine pressing current events through the lens of our Christian faith, reflecting on Scripture and discerning how we, as disciples of Jesus Christ, are called to respond with compassion, courage, and solidarity.
The Details:
- Date: Tuesday, November 3
- Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM (Dinner is from 6:00 – 7:00 PM, and our speakers will begin at 7:00 PM)
- Location: Fellowship Hall
- What to Bring: A favorite dish that is ready to serve! Please label your dish with its contents (e.g., vegetarian, contains meat, gluten-free, nuts, etc.). Westminster will supply beverages, plates, bowls, utensils, and serving ware.
Come share food, practice radical hospitality, and discern how we are called to respond with compassion and courage. All are welcome!
For more information, contact Pastor Heather at [email protected].
