As Shutdown Deepens, Key West Pantries Struggle to Keep Up With Holiday Need
Local charities and volunteers are racing to restock empty shelves as federal workers and low-income families feel the pinch heading into Thanksgiving.
As the federal government shutdown drags on and the holiday season nears, food insecurity is becoming a growing crisis in the Keys. Local organizations are sounding the alarm as pantries face dwindling supplies and an increase in need.
The SOS Foundation and other local partners are urging residents to donate unexpired, everyday staples such as pasta, canned goods, cereal, and oatmeal. Several community drop-off points are open:
Key West United Methodist Church, 600 Eaton St. — Monday–Thursday 9 a.m.–3 p.m.; Wednesday 5–7 p.m.; Sunday 9 a.m.–noon
Queer Keys, 1100 Truman Ave. — Open 24 hours
Plantifa Plant Exchange, 1709 Josephine St. — Open 24 hours
KeyWest.Health, 3720 N. Roosevelt Blvd. — Thursday–Saturday 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
More sites are expected to be added in the coming days. Organizers encourage the community to help restock shelves and ensure no family goes hungry this holiday season by joining the effort to #PackThePantries and #FeedKeyWest.