An Urgent Call to Action
Federal instability and shifting policies are putting critical food assistance at immediate risk. Starting November 1, SNAP benefits—the primary source of food support for more than one million Massachusetts residents—will be delayed until the federal government reopens. This disruption means families across the Cape and Islands could soon face empty shelves and impossible choices between food, rent, and medicine.
In partnership with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Cape & Islands United Way is mobilizing to respond to this urgent threat to SNAP, the cornerstone of our state’s anti-hunger safety net. When crisis hits, United Way acts fast—bringing together partners, resources, and community support to meet needs at scale. But we can’t do it alone.
Your support is needed now to help ensure that no one in our community goes hungry.
Our Food Security Partners
When you give to the Cape & Islands United Way, you are helping us support the following organizations fighting food insecurity on the Cape & Islands:
SNAP Rapid Relief Grant Application
This statewide effort, which involves the  13 United Ways across Massachusetts, aims to serve all 351 communities by rapidly deploying critical food resources to meet urgent, immediate community needs.   Community-based nonprofit organizations in Massachusetts may apply for funding to address the federal government's elimination or reduction in food assistance, specifically SNAP benefits.
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Details
Organizations may receive  up to $20,000  through this grant. The grant is specifically structured to  provide relief from the loss of monthly SNAP benefits in Massachusetts.  Please note that you do not need to provide a budget or funding request at this time. The information you provide in your application will be used to determine grant award amounts.
If you are an individual looking for immediate assistance, please contact Mass 211 or see their website. This service is supported by United Ways statewide. If you are looking for the UWMB Partner United Response Fund Application you can find it here.