CalFresh (SNAP) Disruption Leaves Lasting Impact; Joybound People & Pets Responds with Emergency Relief Fundraising Campaign

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WALNUT CREEK, CA – November 13, 2025: Even with good news of restored CalFresh (SNAP) benefits, many Contra Costa County families are still feeling the aftereffects of the recent cuts to that program because of the government shutdown. Thousands of people have gone without critical food assistance, and the impact continues to be felt.

To meet the growing need, Joybound People & Pets has launched the Fill the Bowl campaign, directing $20,000 from its Giving Tuesday campaign to purchase and distribute 20,000 pounds of pet food before the end of the year. The effort is part of Joybound’s Community Solutions program, which supports families facing financial hardship with free pet food, veterinary care, and other vital services. Across Contra Costa County, more than 108,000 individuals rely on CalFresh benefits to help meet basic food needs. When those benefits are reduced or delayed, entire families face impossible choices.

Last year alone, Joybound distributed more than 171,000 pounds of free pet food to local families. But with SNAP benefits reduced and recovery slow to reach those most affected, demand has never been higher, and the organization’s FoodShare pantry shelves are running low.

“While relief may be coming; the ripple effects of this disruption are still being felt,” said Miguel Abi-hassan, Chief of Programs at Joybound People and Pets. “No one should ever have to choose between feeding themselves and feeding their pet. Our community has the power to make sure that does not happen.”

Joybound operates on a simple yet powerful belief: the best home for a pet is the one they are already in, surrounded by familiar comforts and a family who loves them. That philosophy drives Joybound’s extensive programming to provide assistance to pet guardians in need, ensuring that financial hardship never has to mean losing a beloved companion.

Community members can make an immediate impact by donating to Joybound’s Fill the Bowl campaign: https://joybound.org/donate/fill-the-food-bowls/.

Every $1 provides one pound of pet food, keeping pets nourished, healthy, and in the homes they love. A matching gift opportunity is currently available, doubling the impact of each donation.

Help spread the word and inspire neighbors across Contra Costa County to come together and support families and pets in need. Coverage and sharing of this campaign can help fill empty bowls, strengthen the human-animal bond, and ensure pets stay where they belong: at home with the people who love them.