Shreveport, Louisiana, October 24, 2025
News Summary
Food pantries and banks in Shreveport-Bossier are struggling with a rise in demand and a decrease in supply due to the federal government shutdown. This week, the Food Bank of Northwest Louisiana reported a 16% increase in requests for assistance, while there are concerns over the possible unavailability of SNAP benefits next month. Local food pantries like the Noel Food Pantry are calling for donations to help meet the rising needs as community support is crucial during this crisis.
Shreveport, Louisiana – Food pantries and food banks in Shreveport-Bossier are grappling with a significant increase in demand while facing a decline in supply due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. The local Food Bank of Northwest Louisiana has reported a 16% surge in requests for assistance this week, a trend that is expected to continue as the shutdown persists.
Governor Jeff Landry of Louisiana has issued a warning that Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits may not be available next month if the shutdown continues, raising concerns for many low-income residents who rely on these essential resources. As of the summer, over 800,000 people in Louisiana received benefits from SNAP, as indicated by figures from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
While the Food Bank of Northwest Louisiana cannot distribute food directly to individuals, it is actively referring those in need to nearby food pantries for assistance. One of these facilities, the Noel Food Pantry, has also seen an uptick in demand, with director Mary Caldwell noting an increase in monthly visitors. Typically serving around 350 individuals, the pantry expects that number to exceed 400 this month.
The Noel Food Pantry is calling for non-perishable food items and monetary contributions to help meet the rising need. The Food Bank of Northwest Louisiana emphasizes its ability to convert every one dollar in donations into ten dollars worth of food, highlighting the impact of community support during this challenging time.
The Caddo Council on Aging has compiled a list of local food banks and resources for residents facing food insecurity, aiming to connect those in need with available assistance. In addition to food support, Bos-Man’s Barber College in Shreveport is offering complimentary haircuts to government employees affected by the shutdown. This service began today and will be available daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. for the entire duration of the shutdown, with only a valid government ID required for eligibility.
The ongoing federal government shutdown poses a serious threat to individuals and families reliant on federally funded assistance programs, with food banks and community services working diligently to bridge the gap created by this crisis. As the situation evolves, local charitable organizations are urging the community to support them through donations and volunteer efforts.
Key Statistics
- Food Bank of Northwest Louisiana: 16% increase in need this week
- SNAP beneficiaries in Louisiana: Over 800,000
- Noel Food Pantry visitors: Expected to exceed 400 this month
- Donation impact: $1 converts to $10 worth of food
Other Resources and Assistance
- List of local food banks and resources available through the Caddo Council on Aging
- Bos-Man’s Barber College offering complimentary haircuts to government employees
Understanding the Situation
The interplay between the federal government shutdown and essential food services highlights the fragility of food security for many households. Local organizations and community members are coming together to provide essential support to those affected in Shreveport and surrounding areas.
FAQ
What is the current situation of food pantries in Shreveport amid the government shutdown?
Food pantries and food banks across the country, including Shreveport-Bossier, are experiencing an increase in need and a decrease in supply during the federal government shutdown.
What warning did Governor Jeff Landry give regarding SNAP benefits?
Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry has warned that SNAP benefits may not be available next month if the shutdown continues.
How many people in Louisiana were receiving SNAP benefits as of summer?
Over 800,000 people in Louisiana received benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) as of summer, according to U.S. Department of Agriculture figures.
How can donations impact local food banks?
The Food Bank of Northwest Louisiana states that they can convert one dollar in donations into $10 worth of food.
Chart: Key Features of Food Pantry Demand and Assistance in Shreveport
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Increase in Demand | 16% increase reported by Food Bank of Northwest Louisiana |
| Projected SNAP Cutoff | Possible unavailability of benefits next month |
| Food Pantry Visitors | Noel Food Pantry expecting over 400 this month |
| Donation Conversion | $1 donation converts to $10 in food |
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Additional Resources
- KTBS: Food Pantries and Banks Seeing Increase in Need During Government Shutdown
- KSLA: Shreveport Barbershop Providing Free Haircuts to Federal Workers Impacted by Government Shutdown
- KTBS: Barber College Offers Free Haircuts to Government Workers During Shutdown
- Shreveport-Bossier Advocate: Government Shutdown and Local Services
- Shreveport Times: Social Security Payments During Federal Government Shutdown
- Wikipedia: Food Bank
- Google Search: Government Shutdown Impact on Food Security
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
- Google Scholar: Food Insecurity Government Shutdown
- Google News: Food Pantries Shutdown
Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER
The SHREVEPORT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREShreveport.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mudbug Madness Festival, Red River Revel Arts Festival, and Independence Bowl. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Shreveport-Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Shreveport Regional Arts Council, plus leading businesses in gaming, healthcare, and energy that power the local economy such as Horseshoe Casino, Ochsner LSU Health, and Atmos Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBatonRouge.com and HERENewOrleans.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
