In a year defined by uncertainty, one moment stands out in its gravity: the federal government shutdown that halted Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for the first time in history. For over 10,000 Cambridge residents who rely on SNAP to put food on the table, this crisis was immediate and devastating. And yet, what we will remember most is not the fear of that moment, but the extraordinary way our community rose to meet it.

We were stunned — and deeply moved — by the outpouring of support from all corners of the city. Neighbors organized food drives overnight. Families and faith communities sent monetary donations. Local groups collected gift cards so parents could shop for essentials with dignity. Companies set up matching donation campaigns for their employees.

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