Myth #4: People Misuse Government Programs

"They are just getting free handouts"

There’s a common belief that government assistance programs like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) are exploited as ‘easy handouts.’ In reality, these benefits are lifelines for many hard-working people.


Diego and Katrina* are Lancaster neighbors who were working full-time and raising two children. Without warning, Katrina unexpectedly passed away, leaving Diego to navigate the world as a single parent, facing overwhelming heartache and shouldering life’s responsibilities on his own.

The financial strain quickly became daunting. Bills piled up and affording food became a struggle. Seeking immediate help, Diego visited the Lancaster County Food Hub where a compassionate volunteer listened to his story and suggested he apply for SNAP food benefits—a lifeline he hadn’t known was available.


Thanks to a SNAP Blitz Day, an initiative led by Hunger-Free Lancaster County, the Food Hub helped him schedule an appointment. A week later, Diego returned to complete his SNAP application and left with not only renewed hope, but the ability to care for his children without the constant worry over their next meal.


The Reality Behind the Myth:

Just like Diego, many families who qualify for SNAP don’t realize it—almost 85% of those eligible don’t participate due to lack of awareness. Others find the application process challenging, requiring documentation that can be hard to access. For most, SNAP is a temporary support, providing essential relief for around 10 months until they’re back on their feet.


Diego's experience illustrates that many people seek assistance not out of a desire for handouts but out of genuine need during challenging times. By understanding these realities, we can replace myths with compassion for families like Diego’s, who strive daily for a more stable future.


*Note: Names have been changed to respect privacy.

Save the Date: ExtraGive on Friday, November 22nd!

20 days until Food Hub’s “Pay What You Can”

Food Truck Rally on ExtraGive - 11/22!

We’re just 20 days away from the Food Hub’s “Pay What You Can” Food Truck Rally on November 22 from 12-2pm, and we’re serving 600 meals!


This rally is a wonderful opportunity for the Lancaster community to come together for a shared meal in a welcoming space, offering dignity and choice. Bring your friends, coworkers, and neighbors—everyone is invited!


Here’s how it works:

  • Three Amazing Food Trucks: Choose from Cabalar, Skip’s Food Truck, or Chellas! Grab a ticket at the welcome table for one meal and enjoy unlimited pizza, chips, cookies, and apples.
  • Donation Options: We’ll provide discreet donation options through QR codes, iPads, and cash, ensuring everyone can enjoy the event without any pressure.
  • Sit and Connect: Enjoy live music and great conversations as you gather with new friends in our warehouse and parking lot seating areas.
  • Community Tables: Check out our community sponsor tables, where you can learn about those who helped make this event possible and pick up some freebies and giveaways!

Plus, don’t miss out on exciting matching gifts from generous local sponsors with fantastic incentives throughout the day!


Food Hub's Matching Gifts & Prize Schedule:

  • Midnight Madness: The first 10 organizations that receive 20 unique donations will each earn a $500 prize!
  • 6-7 AM: $500 from Spangler's Auto
  • 7-8 AM: $1,000 from Listrak
  • 8-9 AM: $1,000 from Murray & Donegal Insurance Group
  • 9-10 AM: $500 from Alicia Alexander State Farm
  • 10-11 AM: $500 from Carole Kirchner Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices
  • 1 PM: During the exact minute between 1:00 PM - 1:00:59 PM, the first 100 organizations that receive a unique donation will each receive a $100 prize!
  • 2-3 PM: $500 from Tanger Lancaster
  • 3-4 PM: $500 from Henrietta Heisler Interiors Inc.
  • 4-5 PM: $1,000 from North Group Consultants
  • 5-6 PM: $500 from Kegels Produce
  • 6-7 PM: $1,000 from Moser Roofing Solutions, LLC
  • 7-8 PM: $1,000 from The Giant Company
  • 9-10 PM: $500 from Lancaster Gift Box
  • 10-11 PM: $1,000 from GlobalHMA
  • 11 PM - Midnight: $500 from an anonymous donor, ensuring every last donation counts!


Every dollar raised for the Food Hub's ExtraGive fundraiser directly supports Lancaster neighbors in need. Your contributions can be amplified through matching opportunities, maximizing your impact and empowering those who are often overlooked.

Join us for food trucks and fun! ♥ Learn more!