If Feeding the Hungry Isn’t Big Government’s Role, Show Us Whose Role It Is

As we write this, one in eight Americans is living in an existential limbo. Monday was the deadline for the Trump Administration to say whether it would follow the rule of law and comply with a judge’s order to release emergency funds for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program — a lifeline for a vast contingent of people in this country. Federal officials said Monday they would comply, but SNAP benefits are going to be delayed and they’ll only be partial payments. With the government shutdown over a tax credit that helps make health care affordable for tens of millions of Americans facing hunger, it’s a bleak time.

However, we have to acknowledge that this is precisely what some voters this past election wanted. While we as an editorial board believe that funding the social safety net is the highest and best use of our tax money — far over funding the military or other uses — those currently in the majority don’t share those views. Amid the suffering that is about to ensue, we are about to get a lesson in how the tax system works.

If you thought the American health care system was broken, then we’re about to get an education in what it looks like to see emergency rooms as the center for primary care. Broke your arm? Get in line; you’re going to be there a while. Emergency departments are where people are getting their health care, right alongside you and that broken bone.

This week, as we roll out the latest edition of our Central Oregon Gives program, the 85 nonprofits taking part are telling a dire tale. Many are scaling back programs that have been cut by the federal government. Others that are not directly affected by federal funding cuts are seeing impacts in another way: When one nonprofit suffers, they turn to larger philanthropic organizations to fill the gaps. That leaves less in the pot to go around.

For those who don’t believe government has a role in providing a social safety net, the philosophy is that the wealthy, who benefit the most from less taxation, should step up. Well, now’s really the time to do so and see the proof of concept.

Demonstrate how, lacking federal government support, we can keep people employed, fed and housed all on our own, in our own states, counties and communities. Show how the tide of trickle-down economics really helps to lift all boats. With SNAP benefits curtailed and so many food banks and soup kitchens scrambling to fill the gap, there’s no shortage of opportunity to prove that this type of philanthropy works. However, we maintain that the federal government is the most viable entity to provide the kind of support that has made this country great and built a middle class that is the envy of the world. Thrown into this self-imposed crisis, regardless of income level, or politics, nonprofits and the people they serve need your support. Central Oregon Gives is one way to donate to numerous entities, all in one place. It’s a locally based program that takes no fees from the donor and gets 100% of proceeds into the hands of those who need it. Regardless of philosophy, benefits are lapsing across the spectrum. It’s the right time to give.

This article appears in the Source November 6, 2025.