Grocery stores, food banks, Facebook groups and more are coming together to provide some relief for the more than 100,000 Tulsa County residents expected to lose their food stamps Saturday because of the ongoing government shutdown.
The Oklahoma Department of Human Services announced any existing dollars already in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) accounts will roll over. Still, that has done little to quell fears as the shutdown surpasses the month mark.
We pulled together a few resources for Tulsans, featuring food banks and pantries.
Some restaurants are also providing support, either with free or discounted meals or direct pathways to donate to local food pantries.
Sorta Rican
4808 E. Kenosha St., Broken Arrow
Sorta Rican, a Puerto Rican food truck, is providing free meals to anyone who needs it — no questions asked.
“We decided that’s what we’re supposed to do. It’s the whole reason we’re waking up every day,” said Michelle Cairns, owner. “Are you here to make money or are you here to help people? You’re supposed to help people.”
Cairns said she and her husband left their corporate jobs two years ago to open the food truck.
“The whole reason was to feed the community — people that don’t have food,” she said. “My husband, when he was younger, needed places like this to be able to eat. We just pass it forward.”
Uncle Vinny’s NY Pizzeria
322 W. Kenosha St. Broken Arrow
Uncle Vinny’s NY Pizzeria is using a pay-it-forward program for people in need. Customers can pre-pay for a meal, write the order on a sticky note and place it on the board. Then, someone who needs it can turn the sticky note to receive the meal.
Restaurant owner Lawrence Zezima said his parents taught him to give back to the community.
“My mother and father started this in 2006 and they were very involved in the community,” he said. “We’re really just giving back to the community that serves and gives to us.”
Topeca Coffee
Hyatt (100 E. 2nd St. S., Tulsa), Philcade (507 S. Boston Ave., Tulsa) or Vast (110 N. Elgin Ave., Tulsa)
Bring any non-perishable and shelf stable food items to Topeca Coffee and receive 15% off any one drink per visit. Donations will be given to local organizations and pantries to support local families.
The Misty Brew Coffee Co.
12550 E. 86th St. N., Owasso
Donate a freezer bag filled with a meal (non-perishable items) and receive a free coffee at Misty Brew Coffee Co. throughout November. Bags are being delivered to elderly residents and people with transportation challenges. Cash donations are also accepted.
Heirloom Rustic Ales
2113 E. Admiral Blvd.
Heirloom Rustic Ales is participating in a food drive with the Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma. They will accept donations of non-glass, shelf stable and non-expired foods, which can be dropped off during business hours and when Coffee @ Heirloom is open.
- Monday: 3–9 p.m.
- Tuesday through Thursday: 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Friday through Saturday: 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
- Sunday: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Monetary donations can be made here. According to the Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma, $50 provides around 200 meals.
“Heirloom has always been a community hub,” said bartender Jessica Hermann in an email to the Flyer. “Since we opened our doors, I’ve used our platform to help our neighbors in need. Whether it be animals or humans, we have hosted countless events that bring resources to members of our community.”
You can find all of our coverage on the SNAP crisis here.
News decisions at the Tulsa Flyer are made independently of our board members and financial supporters. Read more about our editorial independence policy here.
