Feeding Vermillion, Community Connection Center Continue to Serve Clay County Through Shutdown

As the federal government shutdown continues and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are poised to end November 1, local organizations serving those in need are working to continue to support the community.

The Community Connection Center (CCC), located at 9 Court Street in Vermillion, is a program of United Way of Vermillion which houses numerous programs including Feeding Vermillion’s food pantry, Welcome Table community meal, and Tanager shopping and delivery programs, as well as the Salvation Army Vermillion Emergency Fund, ROCS Outreach, and United Way’s Evan Project Diaper Bank and Pedal Pals bicycle program. The CCC is funded 100% by individual and business donations and provides space, utilities, and administrative support to partner organizations at no cost.

United Way of Vermillion’s Executive Director Kelsey Collier-Wise notes that while all of the programs are seeing rising numbers, the number of people accessing food has risen especially. With the potential freeze on SNAP benefits, Collier-Wise wants those in the community that haven’t used CCC services in the past to know that they are available. “If you live in Clay County and you’re struggling to stretch your grocery dollars, or you’re in danger of having your utilities shut off because bills have piled up, or you need some extra diapers so your infant can go to daycare – we have resources that can help.”

Additionally, community members who want to support their neighbors can help in a variety of ways. “This time of year, there’s always a lot of demand for This time of year, there’s always a lot of demand for hearty soups and stews, chili ingredients, oatmeal, hot cereal, canned fruits and vegetables, and shelf-stable proteins like canned tuna and chicken,” said Feeding Vermillion Operations Director Emmanuel Akinwande. “And because we’re able to access deeply discounted food through Feeding South Dakota, your monetary donations can go a long way – each dollar buys over 5 pounds of food.”

To learn more about the services available at the CCC as well as hours and ways to donate, visit CommunityConnectionCenter.org and FeedingVermillion.org.