Newtown Lions Club will host a Stuff-a-Truck food drive at Big Y World Class Market, 6 Queen Street, on Saturday, November 8, from 9 am to 4 pm.

The event comes at a critical time, as ongoing disruptions to federal SNAP benefits threaten food security for thousands of Connecticut families.

Arnie Berman, co-chair of the Lions Hunger Committee, says this year’s drive “is more urgent than ever.

“The continuing federal shutdown is not only straining local food banks — it’s also making logistics more challenging for volunteers and partners like the Lions,” Berman added.

Although a federal judge recently ordered the Trump administration to resume SNAP payments during the shutdown, it remains unclear when — or if — those funds will reach the 42 million Americans who rely on monthly assistance. The Justice Department has not confirmed whether it will comply with or appeal the ruling.

Hunger Committee Co-Chair Bruce Walczak said what “is clear, is nearly 900 Newtown residents and more than ten percent of Connecticut’s population depend on SNAP. Most recipients are children, seniors, or people with disabilities. Even a short disruption will place enormous pressure on local food pantries.”

In past Lions Club food drives, the US Army Reserve’s 411th Civil Affairs Battalion provided critical support, including manpower and a striking medium tactical military vehicle, typically used for troop movement and cargo transport in both combat and humanitarian missions.

Due to the shutdown, however, the 411th is restricted to “essential activities” and cannot participate this year. Even if the shutdown ends before Saturday, the unit will not be able to mobilize on short notice.

To fill the gap, Lions Club members will provide their own pickup trucks and volunteer labor to collect donations. All food collected will support four area pantries: FAITH Food Pantry and Hospitality Hall Pantry in Newtown, Bridgeport Rescue Mission, and Daily Bread Food Pantry in Danbury.

Past Stuff-a-Truck events at Big Y have seen shopper participation rates nearing 50%, a testament to Newtown’s generosity, according to event organizers.

“When given the chance to help our neighbors,” said Berman, “Newtown steps up. That’s just who we are.”

Newtown Lions Club President Joe Young echoed the sentiment, saying the local club is “a diverse group — men and women of all ages, backgrounds, and experiences. But we’re united by one thing: a desire to help others.

“The Lions’ global motto is ‘We Serve’ — and that says it all.”