Jimmy Kimmel Opens Food Bank in Response to Government Shutdown
Jimmy Kimmel has launched a food bank outside his Los Angeles studio, called The Jimmy Kimmel Live Big, Beautiful Food Bank, as a pointed response to President Donald Trump amid widespread food insecurity caused by the ongoing government shutdown.
Food Drive Details
The initiative offers essential pantry staples to help those affected by the shutdown. The name appears to reference Trump’s “Big, Beautiful Bill.”
Impact of the Government Shutdown
- More than 42 million Americans depend on SNAP benefits for food assistance.
- The shutdown, lasting over a month, halted SNAP payments, leaving many without crucial support for groceries.
- Approximately 1.4 million federal workers have been furloughed or working without pay during the impasse between political parties.
Legal and Political Developments
A federal judge in Rhode Island ordered the Trump administration to secure funds to fully cover November’s SNAP benefits.
“Trump had earlier implied he would not fund the program at all, a statement which was quickly walked back by the White House and replaced with a vow to cover 65 percent of the maximum benefit.”
On the same day, cities and nonprofits appealed to the U.S. government for increased federal support.
Author’s Summary
Jimmy Kimmel’s food bank highlights growing food insecurity during the prolonged government shutdown, underscoring political tensions and urgent community needs.