When news broke that SNAP benefits would be suspended for November due to the ongoing federal government shutdown, Melissa Hillier, property management coordinator at Antioch Hills in Clinton, knew she had to act fast. For the 115 low-income families and individuals she works with daily, that loss of assistance would mean going without food during the holidays.
Instead of her usual holiday dinner and gift party, Hillier pivoted to something more urgent: a fundraising drive to provide $100 grocery or gas gift cards to each household. Her goal is to raise $11,500, and as of this week, she’s already collected over $5,000, with several additional pledges still on the way.
“I don’t want a party. I want to help where it matters” Hillier said. “People can feel good knowing exactly where their money is going—toward food that these families won’t be getting from their SNAP benefits.”
To ensure accountability, the gift cards are restricted so they cannot be used for alcohol or tobacco purchases. Some cards will also go toward gas for residents who make frequent trips to Kansas City for cancer treatments and other medical appointments.
“A few of my residents specifically asked for gas cards because they’re making constant trips for treatments” Hillier explained. “I wanted to make sure their needs were met, too.”
Hillier said the community’s response so far has been overwhelming. Donations have been coming in with many boasting about the good this initiative is bring in a time of uncertainty.
“Everyone has been so kind” she said. “One of my biggest donations came from Priced Right Tree Service, and I can’t thank them enough for their generosity.”
Hillier’s deep sense of empathy comes from experience. She once needed the services of West Central back in 2005 after being evicted and finding herself without a job. However, the help she recieved gave her everything she needed to get back on her feet and inevitably find her passion in life.
“I used to be on food stamps myself” she said. “I know how hard it can be when you’re trying to make it as a single parent or just trying to get back on your feet. Losing that support right around the holidays is terrifying for millions of people.”
Now, years later, she’s running one of West Central Missouri Community Action Agency’s largest properties, 90 apartment units housing families, seniors, and individuals. The property operates under USDA Rural Development and the Missouri Housing Development Commission, both of which have been affected by the shutdown.
Under normal circumstances, Hillier organizes quarterly dinners and activities to build community among residents. But with the loss of federal aid, she felt this year’s efforts needed to go further.
“I just wanted to make sure every single cent goes to helping these families have more than just one meal” she said. “I want them to have groceries for the month they’re not getting SNAP.”
Hillier’s work is also fueled by the support of other civic groups. She’s a member of the Clinton Midday Optimist Club, and she regularly teams up with others in the community to raise funds for local causes. But she noted that while toy drives and gift programs like Toys for Tots and Angel Tree receive attention each December, the need for food assistance often goes overlooked.
“When I was a single mom, the best gift anyone could give me wasn’t toys, it was when someone paid my electric bill or helped with gas so I could get to work” Hillier said. “That’s the kind of help that really makes a difference.”
Hillier began fundraising for her annual holiday effort back in August, sending letters to local businesses, churches, and individuals asking for support. What started as a plan for a holiday party quickly evolved into a mission to feed families in crisis.
“I’m terrified for the 41 million people who rely on food stamps” Hillier said. “Some might take advantage of the system, but most are just struggling; people who’ve lost a spouse, people who are lonely, people trying to get by. I just want them to know their community cares.”
Community members who wish to donate can reach Melissa Hillier at Antioch Hills, 1819 N. Gaines Drive, Clinton, MO, by phone or email, or through her Facebook page. Donation receipts are available for tax purposes, and all contributions go directly toward restricted-use grocery and gas cards.
“This community has always shown up when people need help” Hillier said. “I just hope we can do that again because this year, a warm meal means more than ever.”
