Barnstable County Launches Information Resource for SNAP/HIP Food Assistance and Points to Local Food Pantries
October 31, 2025 (Barnstable, MA) – Barnstable County’s Cape Cod Cooperative Extension has launched a new online resource to support residents navigating recent SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) and HIP (Healthy Incentives Program) changes during the federal government shutdown. As always, the community is encouraged to contact their local food pantry for food assistance or to make donations. The Extension’s online resource can help residents find that information.
Visit the “SNAP on Cape Cod: Find Food Assistance, Learn How You Can Help” page directly at capecod.gov/foodfinder or access it from the banner at the top of capecod.gov for the following information:
- Clear updates on SNAP and HIP, including how the shutdown and new eligibility rules may affect benefits.
- A Cape Cod Food Resource Guide with up-to-date listings for food pantries, community fridges, and meal sites.
- Information on how to donate or volunteer at local food pantries.
- Simple, budget-friendly recipes and nutrition resources.
The page was created by the Extension’s Food Access Program, led by Andrea Scarpellini, to make sure residents have one trusted place for up-to-date information during this period of uncertainty.
“We continue to direct the public to our existing system of food pantries for their food needs or to donate. Most food pantries prefer monetary donations rather than bags of food. This allows them to buy fresh produce, milk, eggs, and other essentials at a lower cost and meet the exact needs of families they serve,” said Ms. Scarpellini.
Even if SNAP benefits are delayed, HIP remains active, allowing participants to continue earning rebates on local fruits and vegetables at participating Cape Cod farms and markets. As long as a SNAP card has a small remaining balance — even a penny (1¢) — recipients can continue to use their HIP funds.
Please be reminded that donations of cash or goods are best made to verified non-profit organizations.
ABOUT CAPE COD COOPERATIVE EXTENSION: Cape Cod Cooperative Extension is the education department for Barnstable County. Educational programs focus on agriculture, marine resources, horticulture, aquaculture, natural resources, water quality, recycling, household hazardous waste, nutrition, food safety, youth development and environmental education issues facing the county. Extension programs are conducted in Barnstable County in cooperation with the staff at the University of Massachusetts, and The Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution–Sea Grant program. www.capecodextension.org
ABOUT BARNSTABLE COUNTY REGIONAL GOVERNMENT OF CAPE COD: Barnstable County provides exemplary government functions and services to keep our community healthy and safe, promote sustainable growth, and offers a proactive, open government that enhances the quality of life for the citizens of Barnstable County.
