Pizza Philanthropist Takes a Slice Out of Hunger During Federal SNAP Crisis

Anthony DeSousa, a Colorado pizza shop owner, serves free meals amid a federal SNAP benefits crisis. He sympathizes from growing up poor. The Senate advances a funding bill to resolve the issue. Donations surge as businesses support hungry families, while political and legal battles continue.

Amidst the turbulence of a prolonged federal SNAP benefits crisis, Colorado pizza shop owner Anthony DeSousa has emerged as a local hero by stepping up to combat hunger within his community. Having endured poverty in his youth, DeSousa vividly recalls the challenges of food insecurity and now offers free meals to those in need.

Since early November, DeSousa has fed locals by distributing hundreds of free pizzas, chicken dinners, and pasta servings to individuals presenting Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits cards or federal worker IDs. This generosity reflects a broader surge in charitable contributions as businesses and communities rally to support households affected by the SNAP lapse amid ongoing political and legal wrangling.

As the Senate moves forward with legislation aimed at resolving the SNAP funding shortfall, food banks nationwide report increased donations, illustrating a communal effort to alleviate stress on low-income families. Amidst confusion over benefits, advocacy groups and government offices experience heightened demand as they strive to guide individuals impacted by this crisis.

(With inputs from agencies.)