JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – More than 40 million Americans could lose access to federal food assistance on November 1, 2025, if the government shutdown continues.
In Jackson, city leaders and other partners are launching an emergency initiative to protect local food security for thousands of families.
During a news conference on October 31, 2025, Jackson Mayor John Horhn outlined plans to identify city resources for immediate distribution through the Community Foundation of Mississippi and the Mississippi Food Network.
The funds will help support Jackson Public Schools (JPS) in serving meals to students and parents, expand its Supper Meal Program and support additional food relief efforts for adults and families affected by the loss of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.
The city also issued a public call for food and monetary donations, with outreach through local organizations and community events.
According to JPS leaders, the JPS Supper Meal Program will be expanded to help those in need.
JPS will host the Supper Meal Program to the following school sites:
- Bates Elementary, 3180 McDowell Road Extension
- Spann Elementary, 1615 Brecon Drive
- Walton Elementary, 3200 Bailey Avenue
- Blackburn Middle, 1311 West Pearl Street
- Kirksey Middle, 5677 Highland Drive
- Forest Hill High, 2607 Raymond Road
- Jim Hill High, 2185 Coach Fred Harris Street
- Lanier Jr. Sr. High, 833 West Maple Street
The Supper Meal Program will begin on November 3, 2025, and will operate Monday through Friday from 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Meals include meat, bread, a vegetable, fruit, and milk or juice. All meals are free for students and available to adults for $4.00.
In accordance with program guidelines, JPS officials said students are required to enjoy their meals onsite, while adults may take their meals to go after payment.
Those who wish to support the JPS Supper Meal Program through donations may do so by contacting the Community Foundation for Mississippi.