The Evansville City Council has approved more than 350-thousand dollars for groups that provide food for needy residents. WNIN’s John Gibson has details:
The council approved the request from Mayor Stephanie Terry to use about 357-thousand dollars in interest earned from American Rescue Plan funds.
Mayor Terry says the money will go to at least four local organizations:
"And it will include the Tri-State Food Bank — who will then also possibly sub-grant to some other smaller organizations in the community — Feed Evansville, Young and Established, and the Salvation Army."
Terry noted that last week’s agreement on Capitol Hill will reinstate SNAP benefits, at least for now:
"Even though there has been some positive changes, we still know there's a need for this funding."
Democratic councilor Mary Allen praised the effort:
"I will say I do appreciate this administration's response. I know as soon as the news was coming out about this impact, I know conversations were happening, meetings were happening and so thank you."
The council approved the appropriation 5-to-0.
Councilors Zac Heronemus and Courtney Johnson abstained from the vote because their organizations will benefit from the funds.
Council members Ben Trockman and Tanisha Carothers did not attend Monday night’s meeting.