Georgia teen launches SNAP pause support to feed families in his community during shutdown

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SNELLVILLE, Ga. — As Georgia suspends SNAP benefits amid a government shutdown, one teen is taking action to help families stay fed.

Georgia teens helps feed families launching SNAP Pause Support

Jaeleon Hawkins-Jones, 16, a high school junior and member of the Gwinnett Young Democrats, launched “SNAP Pause Support,” a grassroots fundraiser aimed at fighting food insecurity. His goal: deliver food boxes to families across Gwinnett County before state assistance runs dry.

“My family has relied on SNAP,” said Hawkins-Jones. “I know how much these resources matter when you’re trying to make ends meet.”

About SNAP Pause Support

Starting Nov. 1, Georgia’s Department of Human Services paused SNAP benefits due to the ongoing shutdown. The move affects more than 1.4 million residents roughly 12% of the state’s population.

Hawkins-Jones didn’t wait for lawmakers to act. Instead, he partnered with the Southeast Gwinnett Co-op Ministry to distribute food boxes filled with essentials.

Each box includes:

• Rice, pasta, canned goods, beans, cereal, and peanut butter
• Snacks for children
• Bottled water or shelf-stable milk

He also plans to include $5 Kroger gift cards to help families cover gas costs.

“When leadership fails to act, regular people like us have to step up,” Hawkins-Jones told FOX 5.

Goals and donations

So far, he’s raised more than $2,300 through GoFundMe.

Donations go directly toward purchasing, packing, and distributing food. A $25 gift feeds one family. A $100 donation supports multiple households for a week.

“I want to show other teens that we can lead change,” he said. “You’re never too young to make a difference.”

The Southeast Gwinnett Co-op will assist with logistics and outreach. Hawkins-Jones plans to begin distribution before the SNAP pause takes full effect.

As the shutdown continues, families across Georgia face growing uncertainty. But thanks to one determined teen, hope is on the way, one food box at a time.

To learn more or donate, visit the official GoFundMe page.